SLC1A2 - Clinical Significance

Clinical Significance

Mutations in and decreased expression of this protein are associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The drug riluzole approved for the treatment of ALS upregulates EAAT2.

Ceftriaxone, an antibiotic, has been shown to induce/enhance the expression of EAAT2, resulting in reduced glutamate activity. Ceftriaxone has been shown to reduce the development and expression of tolerance to opiates and other drugs of abuse. EAAT2 may possess an important role in modulating drug addiction and tolerance.

Upregulation of EAAT2(GLT-1) causes impairment of prepulse inhibition, a sensory gating deficit present in schizophrenics and schizophrenia animal models. Some antipsychotics have been shown to reduce the expression of EAAT2.