glutamine secretion

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The controlled release of glutamine by a cell. [PMID:15208395]

Glutamine secretion is a complex biological process involving multiple steps and cellular components. It begins with the synthesis of glutamine from glutamate and ammonia within the cell, primarily in the mitochondria. The enzyme glutamine synthetase catalyzes this reaction, utilizing ATP and the amino acid glutamate as substrates. The newly synthesized glutamine then needs to be transported across the cell membrane for secretion into the extracellular space. This transport is mediated by specific transporter proteins located on the cell membrane, known as system N transporters or SNATs. SNATs are a family of sodium-dependent amino acid transporters that exhibit varying affinities for different amino acids, including glutamine. Once glutamine is secreted into the extracellular space, it can be utilized by neighboring cells as a source of nitrogen, energy, or as a precursor for other biosynthesis pathways. Several factors can influence glutamine secretion rates, including cellular energy status, the availability of substrates such as glutamate and ammonia, the expression levels of glutamine synthetase and SNATs, and hormonal signals. Glutamine secretion plays crucial roles in a variety of physiological processes, including nitrogen metabolism, cell growth and differentiation, immune function, and the regulation of blood glucose levels. Dysregulation of glutamine secretion can contribute to the development of various diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. The detailed mechanism of glutamine secretion is an active area of research, with ongoing efforts to understand its precise regulation and potential therapeutic implications.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (8)