The incredible diversity of structures and functions of ABC transporters

[摘要] Ever since the discovery of P-gp in 1975, ATP-binding cassette transporters have captivated basic researchers, microbiologists, and clinicians alike. Numerous processes relyupon these fascinating molecular machines. They regulatehomeostatic, developmental, and pathophysiologicalprocesses—acting as directional or bidirectional membranetransporters, channels or receptors. Overexpression ofABCs is linked to drug resistance of pathogens and perhapscertain cancers. Inborn errors in genes encoding ABCscause prominent and prevalent genetic diseases.