Transporter
Transporter
Transporter (pronunciation: /trænˈspɔːrtər/) is a term used in various fields of medicine, particularly in biochemistry and pharmacology.
Etymology
The term "transporter" is derived from the Latin word "transportare", which means "to carry across". In the context of medicine, it refers to proteins that move molecules across cell membranes.
Definition
A transporter is a specific type of protein that facilitates the movement of different molecules across biological membranes, including the cell membrane. These proteins play a crucial role in various physiological processes, such as nutrient uptake, waste removal, and drug transport.
Types of Transporters
There are several types of transporters, including:
- Ion Transporters: These transporters move ions across a membrane, often against their concentration gradient. This process is essential for maintaining the electrochemical gradient in cells.
- ATP-binding Cassette Transporters (ABC Transporters): These transporters use the energy from ATP hydrolysis to transport various molecules across cell membranes.
- Solute Carrier Transporters (SLC Transporters): These transporters facilitate the movement of solutes across cell membranes via passive diffusion or secondary active transport.
Role in Pharmacology
In pharmacology, transporters play a significant role in drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME). They can influence the therapeutic efficacy and toxicity of drugs. For example, the P-glycoprotein transporter can pump drugs out of cells, reducing their effectiveness.
Related Terms
- Active Transport: The process by which molecules are moved across a cell membrane against their concentration gradient, often with the help of transporters.
- Passive Transport: The process by which molecules move down their concentration gradient across a cell membrane, often facilitated by transporters.
- Endocytosis and Exocytosis: Processes by which large molecules are transported into and out of cells, respectively.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Transporter
- Wikipedia's article - Transporter
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