A creatine transporter cDNA from Torpedo illustrates structure/function relationships in the GABA/noradrenaline transporter family.

A family of homologous, Na+/Cl- dependent plasma membrane transporters catalyze the uptake of a number of neurotransmitters and structurally related compounds into cells. Here, we report the cDNA cloning, sequencing and functional characterization of a non-mammalian member of this transporter family. A creatine transporter from the electric ray, Torpedo marmorata, displays 64% amino acid identity with its rabbit counterpart and has a similar substrate affinity and specificity. Sequence similarity generally is lowest in those regions where also the sequences of other members of the family, transporting different substrates, diverge. Only a few amino acids are better conserved between the two creatine transporters than with the other family members and are candidates for a role in conferring substrate specificity.