Cationic Amino Acid Transporters (CATs) are a class of membrane proteins responsible for the uptake of cationic amino acids into cells. They are found in a wide range of tissues and play a crucial role in the regulation of amino acid metabolism and homeostasis.
CATs are integral membrane proteins that span the cell membrane and facilitate the transport of cationic amino acids, such as lysine, arginine, and ornithine, across the cellular membrane. They utilize the energy generated by chemical gradients to transport amino acids against their concentration gradient, ensuring that cells have a sufficient supply of these crucial building blocks for protein synthesis and other metabolic processes.
These transporters are highly specific and exhibit varying affinities for different cationic amino acids. They are often categorized into two major subtypes: CAT1 and CAT2. CAT1 has a broad distribution and is found in many tissues, while CAT2 is mainly expressed in specific tissues such as the liver and kidney.
CATs are not only involved in the uptake of essential nutrients, but they also play a role in the regulation of cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. Dysregulation of CAT function has been implicated in various disease conditions, including metabolic disorders, kidney diseases, and cancer.
Overall, cationic amino acid transporters are instrumental in maintaining amino acid homeostasis within cells and ensuring the proper functioning of various physiological processes.
