sodium:dicarboxylate symporter 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: dicarboxylate(out) + Na+(out) = dicarboxylate(in) + Na+(in). [GOC:ai]

Sodium:dicarboxylate symporters are transmembrane proteins that facilitate the coupled transport of sodium ions (Na+) and dicarboxylates across cell membranes. Dicarboxylates are organic molecules with two carboxyl groups (-COOH), such as succinate, fumarate, malate, and citrate. The transport process is driven by the electrochemical gradient of Na+, which is typically higher outside the cell.

The symporter protein binds both Na+ and the dicarboxylate substrate simultaneously. The binding of Na+ to the symporter induces a conformational change in the protein, facilitating the binding of the dicarboxylate. This conformational change allows the substrate to be transported across the membrane. Once the substrate and Na+ are transported inside the cell, the symporter returns to its original conformation, ready for another transport cycle.

Sodium:dicarboxylate symporters play crucial roles in various cellular processes, including:

* **Metabolism:** They facilitate the uptake of dicarboxylates, which are important intermediates in metabolic pathways such as the citric acid cycle and gluconeogenesis.
* **Transport:** They contribute to the transport of dicarboxylates across cell membranes, ensuring the appropriate distribution of these molecules within the body.
* **pH regulation:** They can contribute to pH regulation by influencing the intracellular concentration of dicarboxylates, which can act as buffers.

These symporters are found in various tissues and organs, including the kidneys, liver, intestines, and brain. They are essential for maintaining cellular function and overall organismal homeostasis.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)