Anti-SLC16A3/MCT 4 antibody

Supplementary info

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

Activity summary

SLC16A3 also known as MCT4 or MCT-4 is a member of the monocarboxylate transporter family. It is responsible for the transport of lactate and other monocarboxylates across cell membranes. Typically the molecular weight of MCT4 is approximately 45-50 kDa. This transporter is most abundant in tissues with high glycolytic activity including muscle and certain types of tumors where it facilitates the export of lactate produced during anaerobic metabolism to maintain intracellular pH balance and energy production efficiency.

Biological function summary

The transport function of SLC16A3/MCT4 is important for maintaining the energy equilibrium in cells that rely heavily on glycolysis. MCT4 does not function independently; it associates with ancillary proteins like CD147/Basigin which is essential for its correct localization to the plasma membrane. This association enhances the transport efficiency of lactate making MCT4 an important player in the lactate shuttle system a mechanism that allows for effective energy utilization in muscle fibers and tumor cells and significantly contributes to the regulation of the tissue microenvironment.

Pathways

SLC16A3/MCT4 plays a significant role in metabolic pathways particularly the glycolytic pathway by facilitating lactate efflux. The transporter is also implicated in the Cori cycle where lactate is shuttled from muscles to the liver for gluconeogenesis. Its functions overlap with those of other monocarboxylate transporters such as MCT1 which generally handles the import of lactate in oxidative tissues. Together these transporters maintain homeostasis of lactate levels in various tissues preventing lactate accumulation.

Associated diseases and disorders

Alterations in SLC16A3/MCT4 expression or function are associated with cancer and anaerobic exercise intolerance. In cancer overexpression of MCT4 correlates with aggressive tumor behavior due to its role in lactate export aiding in the acidic tumor microenvironment development which favors cancer cell survival and invasion. Additionally interactions with proteins like CD147 are thought to modulate tumor progression. In exercise intolerance impaired lactate transport leads to muscle fatigue and reduced exercise capacity highlighting the critical role MCT4 plays in normal metabolic responses during intense physical activity.