Amino acid transport inhibitors work by specifically binding to the amino acid transporters, thereby blocking the entry of amino acids into the cancer cells. For example, inhibitors targeting LAT1 prevent the uptake of branched-chain amino acids, which are crucial for activating the mTOR pathway, a key regulator of cell growth and proliferation. Similarly, inhibitors of ASCT2 can reduce the influx of glutamine, a vital nutrient for cancer cell metabolism and antioxidant defense.
