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. 2017 Oct 19;36(22):3272–3273. doi: 10.15252/embj.201798304

Figure 1. The transporter‐channel divide.

Figure 1

(A) Predicted SLCO2A1 topology. (B) SLCO2A1 substrates, prostaglandin E2, PGE2, and chloride. (C) Schematic comparing generalized transporter (left) and channel (right) mechanisms. Transporters use multiple gates that allow substrate to pass across the membrane through sequential steps such that one gate is always closed, preventing free passage across the membrane. Channels block ion flow with a gate that when opened allows free flow of ions down their electrochemical gradients.