Anti-EAAT4 antibody [EPR7742] - N-terminal

Supplementary info

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

Activity summary

EAAT4 also known as Excitatory Amino Acid Transporter 4 or SLC1A6 functions as a sodium-dependent glutamate transporter primarily facilitating the reuptake of glutamate into presynaptic neurons and glial cells. EAAT4 has an approximate molecular mass of 65 kDa. Expression occurs mainly in Purkinje cells within the cerebellum but it can also be found in other parts of the central nervous system albeit at lower levels.

Biological function summary

EAAT4 controls extracellular glutamate concentration preventing excitotoxicity in neural circuits. EAAT4 forms part of the larger family of high-affinity glutamate transporters which includes EAAT1 to EAAT5. This transporter operates by coupling glutamate transport with the influx of sodium and the efflux of potassium and protons thereby maintaining ion balance. Although single in its action EAAT4 works alongside related transporters for comprehensive glutamate regulation.

Pathways

EAAT4 plays a significant role in glutamatergic signaling and cerebellar function. The transporter deeply integrates into the synaptic transmission pathway ensuring glutamate homeostasis critical for synaptic plasticity. EAAT4 works in functional tandem with proteins like EAAT3 facilitating efficient glutamate clearance and modulating excitatory signaling within neuronal pathways.

Associated diseases and disorders

EAAT4 relates to neurodegenerative conditions where disrupted glutamate homeostasis plays a part such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Spinocerebellar Ataxia. Excessive extracellular glutamate can lead to neuronal damage linking EAAT4 function with these pathologies. Moreover EAAT4 interacts with proteins like GLT-1 in these disease contexts to attempt to mitigate glutamatergic dysfunction.