Amino Acid Transporter A is a complex term in biology often abbreviated as AATA. It is pronounced [əˈmiːnoʊ ˈæsɪd trænˈspɔrtər eɪ] using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). This term refers to a protein involved in the transport of amino acids across biological membranes. The spelling of this term follows the conventional English language rules with stress on the second syllable of Amino, the third syllable of Acid, and the first syllable of Transporter.
Amino Acid Transporter A (AAT-A), also known as Solute Carrier Family 6 Member 19 (SLC6A19), is a protein that functions as a transmembrane transporter to facilitate the movement of amino acids across cell membranes. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are vital for various biological processes such as protein synthesis, cellular metabolism, and neurotransmission.
AAT-A is primarily found in the renal tubules of the kidneys, where it plays a crucial role in the reabsorption of amino acids from the urine back into the bloodstream. This process is critical for maintaining a proper balance of amino acids in the body and preventing their wastage through urinary excretion.
Mutations or dysfunctions in the AAT-A gene can lead to a rare genetic disorder known as Hartnup disease. In individuals with Hartnup disease, the AAT-A transporter is impaired, resulting in reduced absorption of certain amino acids from the intestines and kidneys. This deficiency can potentially lead to various symptoms including skin rashes, photosensitivity, neurological abnormalities, and even intellectual disabilities if left untreated.
Understanding the specific mechanisms and functions of Amino Acid Transporter A has important implications in the fields of medicine and biochemistry. It provides insights into the absorption and transportation of amino acids in the body, as well as contributes to the identification and treatment of genetic disorders related to amino acid metabolism.