Slc7a8, encoding the L-type amino acid transporter 2 (LAT2), is an important gene involved in amino acid transport. It is associated with various biological functions such as maintaining tissue homeostasis, participating in cell metabolism, and influencing immune responses. It is part of the solute carrier family 7, and its encoded protein is crucial for transporting arginine and large amino acids across the cell membrane, which is fundamental for many cellular metabolic programs [2,3].

In diet-induced obesity mouse models, Slc7a8 knockout (KO) mice had significantly less weight gain on a high-fat diet compared to wild-type mice. The KO mice also showed reduced glucose intolerance, adipocyte mass, hypertrophy, macrophage infiltration, and decreased lipid accumulation in multiple organs, indicating that targeting Slc7a8 can protect against diet-induced obesity [1]. In another study, genetic ablation of Slc7a8 in lymphocytes reduced the frequency of type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s), suppressed cytokine production, and impaired type 2 immune responses, identifying Slc7a8 as a key amino acid supplier for ILC2 functions [2].

In conclusion, Slc7a8 plays essential roles in maintaining normal physiological functions, especially in lipid metabolism and immune cell function. The use of Slc7a8 KO mouse models has provided valuable insights into its role in diet-induced obesity and immune responses, which may offer potential therapeutic targets for obesity-associated comorbidities and immune-related disorders.