Review. The molecular logic of sodium-coupled neurotransmitter transporters.
Synaptic transmission at chemical synapses requires the removal of neurotransmitter from extracellular spaces. At synapses in the central nervous system, this is accomplished by sodium-coupled transport proteins, integral membrane proteins that thermodynamically couple the uptake of neurotransmitter to the uptake of sodium and, in some cases, the uptake and export of additional ions. Recent X-ray crystallographic studies have revealed the architecture of the two major families of neurotransmitter transporters and, together with additional biochemical and biophysical studies, have provided insights into mechanisms of ion coupling, substrate uptake, and inhibition of transport.
Gouaux
Eric
E
Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA. gouauxe@ohsu.edu
D008958:Models, Molecular; D050479:Neurotransmitter Transport Proteins / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000378:metabolism*; D011487:Protein Conformation; D012964:Sodium / Q000378:metabolism*; D013379:Substrate Specificity
D050479:Neurotransmitter Transport Proteins; D012964:Sodium