lithium:proton antiporter activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Enables the transfer of a solute or solutes from one side of a membrane to the other according to the reaction: Li+(in) + H+(out) = Li+(out) + H+(in). [PMID:17270011]

Lithium:proton antiporter activity involves the transmembrane transport of both lithium ions (Li+) and protons (H+) across biological membranes. This activity is crucial for maintaining cellular pH homeostasis and regulating the intracellular concentration of lithium ions. The mechanism of this antiporter activity is characterized by the coupled movement of Li+ and H+ in opposite directions. The transporter protein responsible for this activity possesses binding sites for both lithium and protons, facilitating their simultaneous exchange across the membrane. When a lithium ion binds to the transporter, it triggers a conformational change that enables the binding of a proton on the opposite side of the membrane. This conformational shift facilitates the release of lithium into the cell and the proton out of the cell, effectively maintaining a balance between the two ions. Lithium:proton antiporters play a significant role in various physiological processes, including cellular signaling, ion transport, and neuronal function. Disruptions in the activity of these transporters have been implicated in several disorders, including lithium-induced toxicity and neurological conditions.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)