Target type: molecularfunction
Enables the directed movement of substances (such as macromolecules, small molecules, ions) into, out of or within a cell, or between cells. [GOC:ai, GOC:dgf]
Transporter activity encompasses the movement of molecules across biological membranes. This crucial process involves a diverse range of mechanisms, including:
* **Passive transport:** This type of transport does not require energy and relies on the concentration gradient of the transported molecule. Examples include diffusion, facilitated diffusion, and osmosis.
* **Active transport:** In contrast to passive transport, active transport requires energy, typically derived from ATP hydrolysis, to move molecules against their concentration gradient. This allows cells to concentrate specific molecules inside or outside their membranes.
* **Secondary active transport:** This process utilizes the electrochemical gradient of one molecule to drive the movement of another molecule.
Transporters are proteins that facilitate the movement of molecules across membranes. They exhibit high specificity, recognizing and binding to specific molecules. This selectivity ensures the proper transport of essential nutrients, ions, and waste products, while preventing the entry of harmful substances.
The molecular function of transporters is essential for a wide range of cellular processes, including:
* **Nutrient uptake:** Transporters bring essential nutrients like glucose, amino acids, and vitamins into cells.
* **Waste removal:** Transporters expel metabolic waste products like urea and ammonia from cells.
* **Ion homeostasis:** Transporters maintain the balance of ions, such as sodium, potassium, and calcium, crucial for cellular signaling and function.
* **Signal transduction:** Some transporters play a role in signal transduction pathways, conveying information across membranes.
* **Drug transport:** Transporters are involved in the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of drugs.
Transporter activity is a fundamental process in all living organisms, and its disruption can lead to various diseases. Therefore, understanding transporter function is essential for medical research, drug development, and maintaining cellular health.'
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| Protein | Definition | Taxonomy |
|---|---|---|
| Solute carrier family 23 member 1 | A solute carrier family 23 member 1 that is encoded in the genome of human. [PRO:DNx, UniProtKB:Q9UHI7] | Homo sapiens (human) |
| Compound | Definition | Classes | Roles |
|---|---|---|---|
| ascorbic acid | Ascorbic Acid: A six carbon compound related to glucose. It is found naturally in citrus fruits and many vegetables. Ascorbic acid is an essential nutrient in human diets, and necessary to maintain connective tissue and bone. Its biologically active form, vitamin C, functions as a reducing agent and coenzyme in several metabolic pathways. Vitamin C is considered an antioxidant. L-ascorbate : The L-enantiomer of ascorbate and conjugate base of L-ascorbic acid, arising from selective deprotonation of the 3-hydroxy group. Required for a range of essential metabolic reactions in all animals and plants. L-ascorbic acid : The L-enantiomer of ascorbic acid and conjugate acid of L-ascorbate. vitamin C : Any member of a group of vitamers that belong to the chemical structural class called butenolides that exhibit biological activity against vitamin C deficiency in animals. The vitamers include L-ascorbic acid and its salt, ionized and oxidized forms. | ascorbic acid; vitamin C | coenzyme; cofactor; flour treatment agent; food antioxidant; food colour retention agent; geroprotector; plant metabolite; skin lightening agent |