The Organic Cation Transporter (OCT): A Potential Drug Target and Biomarker

Target Name: Organic cation transporter

NCBI ID: P11342

Organic cation transporter

Other Name(s): OCT

The Organic Cation Transporter (OCT): A Potential Drug Target and Biomarker

Organic cation transporter (OCT) is a protein that plays a crucial role in the transport of essential ions and molecules across cell membranes. OCTs are present in various cell types and are responsible for maintaining the proper levels of these ions in the cells. However, the regulation of OCTs is often disrupted in diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and renal diseases. As a result, targeting OCTs has become an attractive strategy for developing new pharmaceuticals and diagnostic tools. In this article, we will discuss the OCT, its functions, potential drug targets, and use as a biomarker in various diseases.

OCT Structure and Function

OCTs are a subfamily of the transmembrane protein superfamily that consists of six to ten transmembrane proteins. These proteins share a conserved catalytic core and a transmembrane region that is involved in the transport of cations and other molecules. The OCTs can be divided into three main classes: OCT1, OCT2, and OCT3. Each class has distinct differences in their subcellular localization, structure, and function.

OCT1 is the most abundant OCT isoform and is predominantly located in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the mitochondria. It is involved in the transport of essential metals such as Cu2+ and Zn2+, as well as proton motive force (PMF) across the endoplasmic reticulum. OCT1 has been targeted by several drugs, including inhibitors of its ATP-binding site (5) and antibodies that recognize its extracellular domain.

OCT2 is predominantly located in the cytosol and is involved in the transport of essential amino acids, such as L-glutamine and L-lysine. OCT2 has been shown to play a role in cancer progression and has been targeted by inhibitors that affect its activity.

OCT3 is the least abundant OCT isoform and is predominantly located in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the mitochondria. It is involved in the transport of essential fatty acids and has been shown to be involved in the regulation of lipid metabolism.

Potential Drug Targets

OCTs are potential drug targets due to their unique structure and function. Several drugs that have been developed or are in development target OCTs. Here are some examples:

1. Inositol trisphosphate (IP3): This is a second messenger that regulates various cellular processes, including intracellular signaling, neurotransmission, and blood pressure. OCTs are known to transport IP3 across the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and have been shown to play a role in IP3-mediated signaling.
2. Potassium channel: OCTs are involved in the regulation of intracellular potassium levels and have been shown to play a role in the regulation of muscle and cardiac function. Drugs that target OCTs have been developed to treat various neurological and cardiac disorders, including epilepsy, myopathies, and heart failure.
3. Proton pump: OCTs are involved in the regulation of intracellular protons and have been shown to play a role in the regulation of cell signaling and metabolism. Drugs that target OCTs have been developed to treat various diseases, including hypertension and hyperkalemia.

Biomarkers

OCTs can be used as biomarkers in various diseases. Here are some examples:

1. Cancer: OCTs have been shown to be involved in the regulation of cancer cell growth and have been used as biomarkers for various types of cancer, including breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancers.
2. Neurodegenerative disorders: OCTs have been shown to be involved in the regulation of neurotransmitter release and have been used as biomarkers for various neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
3. Renal diseases: OCTs have

Protein Name: Organic Cation Transporter (nonspecified Subtype)

The "Organic cation transporter Target / Biomarker Review Report" is a customizable review of hundreds up to thousends of related scientific research literature by AI technology, covering specific information about Organic cation transporter comprehensively, including but not limited to:
•   general information;
•   protein structure and compound binding;
•   protein biological mechanisms;
•   its importance;
•   the target screening and validation;
•   expression level;
•   disease relevance;
•   drug resistance;
•   related combination drugs;
•   pharmacochemistry experiments;
•   related patent analysis;
•   advantages and risks of development, etc.
The report is helpful for project application, drug molecule design, research progress updates, publication of research papers, patent applications, etc. If you are interested to get a full version of this report, please feel free to contact us at BD@silexon.ai

More Common Targets