Real-Time Tracking of ASCT2-Mediated Glutamine Uptake in Living Tumors With a Bioorthogonal Bioluminescent Probe.

Glutamine addiction, as a hallmark of tumor metabolism, drives malignant progression via proliferation, survival, and metastasis. Alanine-serine-cysteine transporter 2 (ASCT2), the primary glutamine transporter, is overexpressed in tumors to meet metabolic demands, making it a promising therapeutic target. Accurately monitoring ASCT2-mediated glutamine uptake is essential for investigating tumor metabolism and developing ASCT2-targeted therapeutics.