folate transmembrane transport

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process in which a folic acid, or one of its derivatives (dihydrofolate, tetrahydrofolate, methylene-tetrahydrofolate or methyl-tetrahydrofolate) is transported across a membrane. [PMID:24745983]

Folate transmembrane transport is a crucial process for maintaining cellular folate levels, essential for various metabolic reactions, including DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation. Folate, a B vitamin, cannot passively diffuse across cell membranes due to its hydrophilic nature. Therefore, specific membrane-bound transport proteins facilitate its uptake. These proteins belong to the Reduced Folate Carrier (RFC) family, characterized by their ability to transport reduced folates like tetrahydrofolate (THF).

The mechanism of folate transport involves a series of steps:

1. **Binding:** Folate binds to the extracellular domain of the RFC protein.
2. **Conformational Change:** Binding of folate triggers a conformational change in the RFC protein, opening an intracellular channel.
3. **Translocation:** Folate translocates through the channel from the extracellular to the intracellular side of the membrane.
4. **Release:** Folate is released into the cytoplasm, and the RFC protein returns to its original conformation, ready for another cycle.

Folate transport is highly regulated, influenced by factors like:

* **Cellular folate levels:** When cellular folate levels are low, RFC activity increases to facilitate uptake.
* **Dietary folate intake:** Increased dietary folate intake leads to upregulation of RFC expression.
* **Hormones:** Certain hormones, like estrogen and progesterone, can modulate RFC activity.

Mutations in RFC genes can lead to impaired folate transport, resulting in folate deficiency and related health problems.

This process is essential for:

* **DNA synthesis:** Folate is a crucial cofactor in the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines, the building blocks of DNA.
* **DNA repair:** Folate participates in the repair of damaged DNA, preventing mutations and cell damage.
* **Homocysteine metabolism:** Folate is involved in converting homocysteine to methionine, a crucial amino acid.
* **Cell growth and development:** Folate plays a crucial role in cell division and growth, especially during embryonic development.

Therefore, folate transmembrane transport is a vital process for maintaining cellular health and preventing various diseases.'
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Proteins (3)

Compounds (11)