Norepinephrine transporter

Norepinephrine transporter (NET) is a protein that is responsible for the reuptake of norepinephrine into presynaptic nerve terminals. It plays a crucial role in regulating concentrations of norepinephrine in the synaptic cleft and is a target for various drugs and substances.

Structure

The norepinephrine transporter is a protein composed of 12 transmembrane domains. The protein is approximately 70 kDa and is localized to the presynaptic nerve terminals in the central nervous system. It has a high affinity for norepinephrine and is also capable of transporting epinephrine and dopamine.

Function

The primary function of the norepinephrine transporter is to transport norepinephrine from the synaptic cleft back into the presynaptic neuron. This process is known as reuptake and is essential for maintaining normal levels of norepinephrine in the synaptic cleft. By removing norepinephrine from the synaptic cleft, the norepinephrine transporter helps to terminate the signal transmitted by the neurotransmitter.

Clinical significance

The norepinephrine transporter is a target for various drugs and substances. Drugs that inhibit the norepinephrine transporter, such as antidepressants and stimulants, can increase the concentration of norepinephrine in the synaptic cleft and enhance neurotransmission. Mutations in the gene encoding the norepinephrine transporter have been associated with various psychiatric disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

See also

• Norepinephrine
• Neurotransmitter transporter
• Reuptake inhibitor

References

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