amino acid transport complex

Definition

Target type: cellularcomponent

A heteromeric protein complex consisting of a multi-transmembrane spanning subunit (the light chain) and a type II glycoprotein subunit (the heavy chain) that functions to transport amino acids across a plasma membrane. [GOC:kmv, PMID:14668347]

The cellular component of amino acid transport complexes refers to the specific location and organization of proteins involved in the movement of amino acids across cell membranes. These complexes are typically embedded within the plasma membrane, the outer boundary of the cell, and they facilitate the uptake of essential amino acids from the extracellular environment into the cytoplasm. This process is crucial for cellular growth, protein synthesis, and overall metabolic function.

The amino acid transport complex often comprises multiple proteins working together to achieve efficient and regulated transport. These proteins can include:

- **Transporters:** These proteins bind to specific amino acids and facilitate their movement across the membrane. They often exhibit high selectivity for particular amino acids, ensuring efficient uptake of essential nutrients.
- **Chaperones:** These proteins assist in the folding and assembly of the transporter proteins, ensuring their proper functionality within the membrane.
- **Regulatory proteins:** These proteins modulate the activity of the transporter proteins, responding to intracellular signals and controlling the rate of amino acid uptake based on cellular needs.

The precise composition and arrangement of proteins within the amino acid transport complex can vary depending on the specific amino acid being transported and the cell type. However, the overall principle remains the same: these complexes provide a specialized structure within the cell membrane that enables the selective and regulated entry of amino acids, essential for maintaining cellular function and survival.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (19)