Anti-ASCT-1 antibody

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

The Alanine Serine Cysteine-preferring Transporter 1 (ASCT-1) also known as SLC1A4 functions as a Na+-dependent transport protein for neutral amino acids including alanine serine and cysteine. It has a molecular mass of approximately 56 kDa. ASCT-1 expresses on the plasma membrane and is found in the brain and the retina. Its role in the transport of certain amino acids is critical for maintaining normal cellular functions and metabolic processes.

Biological function summary

ASCT-1 transports amino acids which contributes to cellular nutrition and neurotransmitter cycling. It does not function as part of a larger protein complex but rather as a standalone transporter. ASCT-1 plays a significant role in neuronal health by regulating amino acids in the synaptic cleft which impacts neurotransmitter synthesis and recycling essential for proper neural communication.

Pathways

ASCT-1 is actively involved in the glutamate cycle which maintains neurotransmitter homeostasis in the brain. Its activity facilitates the uptake of serine used in the synthesis of D-serine an important co-agonist in NMDA receptor pathways. Both the ASCT-2 transporter and SLC1A3 also part of the glutamate transporter family share related functions in these pathways ensuring the synaptic glutamate levels are regulated effectively.

Associated diseases and disorders

ASCT-1 mutations or dysregulation have links to neurodevelopmental disorders including intellectual disability and epilepsy. Alterations in its function disrupt amino acid transport which can affect neurotransmitter cycling contributing to these conditions. Additionally ASCT-1 shares a connection with SLC1A5 in these disorders where overlapping functions in amino acid transport may exacerbate the symptoms when mutated or dysfunctional.