SLC7A5

SLC7A5, known as Solute Carrier Family 7 Member 5, is a transmembrane transporter also termed LAT1 (L-Type Amino Acid Transporter 1) or CD98 light chain. It forms a heterodimer with SLC3A2 (CD98 heavy chain) to mediate sodium-independent transport of large neutral amino acids (e.g., leucine, phenylalanine) across plasma membranes. Functionally linked to mTORC1 signaling, LAT1 regulates cellular growth by sensing nutrient availability and activating downstream anabolic pathways. Its overexpression is implicated in tumorigenesis, driven by oncogenic pathways (HIF-1α, MYC) that reprogram cancer metabolism to support proliferation. Clinically, SLC7A5 dysregulation correlates with aggressive cancers (glioblastoma, lung, breast) and neurological disorders (Alzheimer’s disease). Pharmacological inhibitors (e.g., JPH203, BCH) targeting LAT1 are under investigation, with early-phase trials exploring their efficacy in blocking tumor nutrient uptake or enhancing blood-brain barrier drug delivery. Antibody-drug conjugates and combinatorial therapies leveraging LAT1’s role in tumor immune evasion represent emerging therapeutic strategies.