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Evidence for two aspartate transport systems in prostate epithelial cells
R B Franklin1, L X Lao, L C Costello
1Department of Physiology, Dental School, University of Maryland, Baltimore 21201.
The Prostate
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Prostate cells possess two distinct systems for aspartate uptake, facilitating transport against a significant concentration gradient. This highlights the prostate
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Aspartate is an amino acid crucial for cellular functions.
- Understanding amino acid transport in prostate cells is vital for prostate health research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms of aspartate transport in isolated prostate cells.
- To determine the tissue distribution and concentration gradient of aspartate in the prostate.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of aspartate transport kinetics in isolated prostate cells.
- Determination of aspartate tissue distribution using washout kinetics of endogenous and radiolabeled aspartate from prostate fragments.
- Calculation of intracellular to plasma concentration gradient for aspartate.
Main Results:
- Two kinetically distinct aspartate uptake systems (high and low affinity) were identified.
- Both systems were sodium-dependent and saturable.
- Aspartate distribution showed 47% intracellular and 52% extracellular localization, with an intracellular to plasma gradient of approximately 43.
Conclusions:
- Prostate cells actively maintain a substantial intracellular aspartate concentration.
- A transport mechanism exists in prostate cells capable of aspartate uptake against a significant concentration gradient.
- These findings provide insights into prostate cell metabolism and amino acid homeostasis.