UDP-N-acetylglucosamine transporter (SLC35A3)

UDP-N-acetylglucosamine transporter (SLC35A3) is a membrane-bound transporter protein of the solute carrier (SLC) family located in the Golgi apparatus. It functions primarily to move UDP-N-acetylglucosamine (UDP-GlcNAc) from the cytosol into the Golgi lumen, operating as an antiporter and exchanging UDP-GlcNAc for UMP[2][4]. This action supplies glycosyltransferases in the Golgi with the substrate required for the biosynthesis of branched N-glycans and keratan sulfate[2][4]. SLC35A3 is crucial for normal cell growth, development, and protein glycosylation. Mutations are linked to congenital glycosylation disorders, intellectual disability, epileptic encephalopathy, and skeletal abnormalities in humans and cattle[2][3]. In cancer, altered expression of SLC35A3 impacts cell proliferation, invasion, apoptosis, and immune cell infiltration, making it a potential biomarker and therapeutic target[1]. The transporter may also form functional complexes with other SLC35 proteins, integrating signals relevant for Golgi function and cellular metabolism[3].

Other names

Solute carrier family 35 member A3Golgi UDP-GlcNAc transporterAMRSS35A3UDP-N-acetylglucosamine transporterSolute carrier family 35 (UDP-N-acetylglucosamine (UDP-GlcNAc) transporter), member A3SLC35A3

Not established for drugs, but modulation would theoretically alter UDP-GlcNAc flux into the Golgi, affecting glycosylation, cell proliferation, and apoptosis