Multidrug Resistance Associated Proteins (MRPs) are a group of transporter proteins that are found in cells and play a crucial role in the efflux or removal of a wide range of drugs and toxins from cells. They belong to the larger superfamily of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters.
MRPs are expressed in various tissues of the body, including the liver, kidney, intestine, and blood-brain barrier. These proteins are responsible for the transport of numerous substances, such as drugs, organic anions, peptides, and endogenous products, across cell membranes. They use the energy derived from ATP hydrolysis to pump these molecules out of cells, thereby reducing their intracellular concentrations.
The expression and function of MRPs have been primarily associated with the development of drug resistance in cancer cells. By actively pumping anticancer drugs out of cells, MRPs contribute to the phenomenon of multidrug resistance (MDR), which significantly limits the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Therefore, MRPs have gained considerable attention as potential therapeutic targets for overcoming MDR and improving the efficacy of anticancer treatments.
Apart from their role in drug resistance, MRPs are involved in various physiological functions, including the elimination of endogenous metabolites, maintenance of cellular homeostasis, and protection against toxic compounds. They have also been implicated in certain diseases, such as cholestasis, gout, and neurodegenerative disorders, where dysregulation of their expression or function can lead to pathological conditions.
In summary, multidrug resistance-associated proteins (MRPs) are a group of transporter proteins that mediate the efflux of drugs and toxins from cells, playing a crucial role in multidrug resistance, cellular homeostasis, and elimination of endogenous metabolites.
