Neurotransmitter Transporters—Unraveling Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities

Abstract

Neurotransmitter transporters are essential regulators of synaptic neurotransmission, maintaining the delicate balance of neurotransmitters in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Dysfunction of these transporters is linked to a wide range of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including depression, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and substance use disorders. This special issue of The Journal of Neurochemistry brings together cutting-edge research that advances our understanding of the molecular mechanisms, structural dynamics, and physiological roles of neurotransmitter transporters. The contributions highlight key themes, including the regulation of transporter trafficking and surface expression through post-translational modifications, the structural dynamics underlying transporter function, and the role of glutamate transporters in excitotoxicity and stress resilience. Additionally, the issue explores pharmacological innovations, such as optopharmacological tools and bioisosteric analogs, that offer new avenues for therapeutic intervention. By integrating insights from structural biology, electrophysiology, genetic models, and computational approaches, this collection underscores the interdisciplinary nature of transporter research and its potential to inform the development of novel therapies for neurological and psychiatric conditions. The articles collectively emphasize the progress and challenges in the field while pointing toward future directions for translational research and precision medicine.