Regulation of the Na+,Cl- Coupled Creatine Transporter CreaT (SLC6A8) by the Janus Kinase JAK3

Abstract

Background: The creatine transporter CreaT (SLC6A8), a Na+,Cl- coupled transporter is expressed in diverse tissues including the brain. Genetic defects of SLC6A8 result in mental retardation with seizures. The present study explored the regulation of CreaT by Janus kinase JAK3, which is expressed in a variety of tissues including the brain and participates in the regulation of cell survival and differentiation of neuronal precursor cells. Methods: CreaT was expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes with or without wild-type JAK3, constitutively active A568VJAK3 and inactive K851AJAK3. Creatine transport in those oocytes was quantified utilizing dual electrode voltage clamp. Results: Electrogenic creatine transport was observed in CreaT expressing oocytes but not in water-injected oocytes. In CreaT expressing oocytes co-expression of JAK3 or A568VJAK3, but not co-expression of K851AJAK3 was followed by a significant decrease of creatine induced current. According to kinetic analysis JAK3 significantly decreased the maximal creatine transport rate. In CreaT and JAK3 expressing oocytes the creatine induced current was significantly increased by JAK3 inhibitor WHI-P154 (22 µM). Conclusion: JAK3 is a powerful negative regulator of the creatine transporter CreaT.