ATP-binding cassette (ABC)

ATP-binding cassette (ABC) proteins are a large family of transporters found in cell membranes. They use energy from ATP (the cell’s energy currency) to move various substances—like nutrients, toxins, or waste—across the cell membrane. This process helps maintain the cell’s internal balance and protects it from harmful compounds. ABC transporters are involved in diverse functions, including drug resistance in cancer cells, immune responses, and the transport of molecules in the body. They are essential for proper cell function and are conserved across many species, from bacteria to humans.