monocarboxylic acid transmembrane transporter activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Enables the transfer of monocarboxylic acids from one side of a membrane to the other. A monocarboxylic acid is an organic acid with one COOH group. [GOC:ai]

Monocarboxylic acid transmembrane transporter activity refers to the ability of a protein to facilitate the movement of monocarboxylic acids across cell membranes. Monocarboxylic acids are organic acids that contain a single carboxyl group (COOH). These acids are essential for various cellular functions, including energy production, biosynthesis, and signaling.

Monocarboxylic acid transporters are integral membrane proteins that form channels or pores through the lipid bilayer of the cell membrane. They typically operate via a facilitated diffusion mechanism, meaning they do not require energy input from the cell to transport their substrates. Instead, they rely on the concentration gradient of the monocarboxylic acid across the membrane to drive transport.

The process of monocarboxylic acid transport involves the binding of the acid to a specific binding site on the transporter protein. This binding event triggers a conformational change in the protein, opening the channel or pore and allowing the acid to move across the membrane.

Monocarboxylic acid transporters are highly selective for their substrates, typically transporting only a specific subset of monocarboxylic acids. This selectivity is determined by the size, shape, and charge of the binding site on the transporter.

The molecular functions of monocarboxylic acid transmembrane transporter activity are essential for a wide range of biological processes, including:

* **Energy metabolism:** Transporting short-chain fatty acids, such as lactate and pyruvate, which are important intermediates in glycolysis and cellular respiration.
* **Biosynthesis:** Transporting amino acids and other precursors for protein synthesis.
* **Signaling:** Transporting neurotransmitters and hormones, such as GABA, glutamate, and acetylcholine.
* **pH regulation:** Transporting protons to maintain the pH balance within cells.

Dysregulation of monocarboxylic acid transmembrane transporter activity can contribute to a variety of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic disorders. Therefore, understanding the molecular function of these transporters is crucial for developing new therapeutic strategies to target these conditions.'
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Proteins (5)

Compounds (34)