This gene encodes a member of the L-amino acid transporter-3 or SLC43 family of transporters. The encoded protein mediates sodium-, chloride-, and pH-independent transport of L-isomers of neutral amino acids, including leucine, phenylalanine, valine and methionine. This protein may contribute to the transfer of amino acids across the placental membrane to the fetus. [provided by RefSeq, Mar 2016].