symporter activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Enables the active transport of a solute across a membrane by a mechanism whereby two or more species are transported together in the same direction in a tightly coupled process not directly linked to a form of energy other than chemiosmotic energy. [GOC:mtg_transport, ISBN:0815340729, PMID:10839820]

Symporter activity is a molecular function that involves the simultaneous transport of two or more molecules across a membrane in the same direction. This process is driven by the concentration gradient of one or more of the transported molecules. Symporters are transmembrane proteins that possess binding sites for each of the transported molecules. They use the energy released from the movement of one molecule down its concentration gradient to drive the movement of another molecule against its concentration gradient. This coupled transport mechanism allows for the efficient transport of molecules across the membrane, even against a concentration gradient.

Symporters play crucial roles in various cellular processes, including:

* **Nutrient uptake:** Symporters facilitate the uptake of essential nutrients, such as glucose, amino acids, and ions, from the extracellular environment into the cell.
* **Waste removal:** Symporters can help remove waste products from the cell, such as toxins and excess ions.
* **Signal transduction:** Symporters can contribute to signal transduction pathways by transporting signaling molecules across the membrane.

The specific molecules transported by a symporter depend on the particular protein. For instance, the sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT) transports glucose into the cell along with sodium ions. This process is crucial for the absorption of glucose from the gut into the bloodstream.

Symporter activity is a vital process that enables cells to maintain their internal environment and carry out essential biological functions.'
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Proteins (8)

Compounds (21)