L-alanine import across plasma membrane

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The directed import of L-alanine from the extracellular region across the plasma membrane and into the cytosol. [GO_REF:0000075, GOC:kmv, GOC:TermGenie, PMID:21097500]

L-alanine import across the plasma membrane is a crucial process for cells to acquire this essential amino acid, which serves as a building block for proteins and a precursor for other metabolic pathways. The import mechanism is primarily facilitated by a family of membrane-bound transporters known as the alanine-serine-cysteine (ASC) transporters. These transporters are responsible for the passive diffusion of L-alanine down its concentration gradient, meaning the amino acid moves from an area of high concentration outside the cell to an area of lower concentration inside the cell.

The ASC transporters are highly specific for L-alanine, and they exhibit a preference for neutral amino acids over basic or acidic amino acids. The transport process involves a series of conformational changes in the transporter protein, which allows L-alanine to bind to the transporter and be translocated across the membrane.

The import of L-alanine is tightly regulated, and the activity of the ASC transporters can be influenced by a number of factors, including the availability of L-alanine, the pH of the extracellular environment, and the presence of other amino acids. In addition to passive diffusion, some cells may also utilize active transport systems to import L-alanine, which requires energy expenditure to move the amino acid against its concentration gradient.

The import of L-alanine is essential for a wide range of cellular functions, including protein synthesis, gluconeogenesis, and the production of energy. The disruption of L-alanine import can have significant consequences for cellular health and function.
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (8)