Recombinant Human EAAT3 protein

EAAT3 (Excitatory Amino Acid Transporter 3), also known as SLC1A1 or EAAC1. is a sodium- and potassium-dependent glutamate transporter primarily expressed in neurons, as well as in peripheral tissues such as the kidneys, intestines, and liver. It belongs to the solute carrier 1 (SLC1) family, which plays a critical role in maintaining extracellular glutamate homeostasis in the central nervous system. By rapidly uptaking synaptic glutamate, EAAT3 prevents excessive neuronal excitation and neurotoxicity, thereby supporting normal neurotransmission and protecting against conditions like epilepsy, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Structurally, EAAT3 is a transmembrane protein with eight alpha-helical domains, forming a trimeric complex that facilitates substrate binding and ion coupling. Its function relies on the electrochemical gradients of Na⁺ and K⁺, enabling the co-transport of one glutamate molecule with three Na⁺ and one H⁺, followed by counter-transport of one K⁺. This mechanism ensures efficient clearance of extracellular glutamate, which is crucial for preventing excitotoxicity.

Recombinant EAAT3 proteins are produced using heterologous expression systems (e.g., mammalian cells, yeast, or bacteria) for biochemical and pharmacological studies. These engineered proteins retain functional and structural properties of native EAAT3. enabling research into transport kinetics, regulatory mechanisms (e.g., phosphorylation, protein-protein interactions), and drug discovery targeting glutamate dysregulation. Mutations or altered expression of EAAT3 have been linked to neuropsychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder) and metabolic abnormalities, highlighting its therapeutic potential. Recombinant EAAT3 also serves as a tool for studying glutamate metabolism in non-neuronal tissues, such as its role in renal amino acid reabsorption and intestinal nutrient sensing.