Posttranslational regulation of the SLC29A family of nucleoside transporters

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Our body is made up of individual units called 'cells'. Each cell has a specialized function. Cells have an outer membrane that forms a barrier to many substances. In order for cells to take up the nutrients from the blood that they need to survive and grow, they must rely on specific molecules (proteins) in the cell membrane to facilitate the passage of these nutrients into the cell. We are studying one particular type of these "transport" proteins involved in the cellular uptake and release of nucleosides. Nucleosides are a class of substances that are used as the building blocks for DNA and RNA, and are also important for controlling many other aspects of cell function. Cells require different levels of nucleosides at different times, and must adapt to their environment to ensure that the nucleoside concentrations, both inside and outside the cell, are maintained at specific levels. We are studying this cellular adaptation process. Our studies are focused on how cells regulate the number and activity of "nucleoside transporters". An increase or decrease in nucleoside transporter activity has been known to modify blood flow to tissues, protect the heart and brain tissue from damage during transient ischemic episodes, and modify the duration of seizures. Nucleoside transporters are also important for the activity of a number of anticancer and antiviral drugs that get into the tumour cells or virus-infected cells via these transporters. A better understanding of how the body regulates nucleoside transporters will enhance our ability to develop better therapies for conditions such as heart failure, seizures, and stroke. These studies will also enhance our understanding of how the cell regulates its metabolism in response to environmental influences.