Sodium-independent transporter that mediates the uptake of aromatic acids. Can function as a net efflux pathway for aromatic amino acids in the basosolateral epithelial cells. Detected in basolateral membrane of kidney proximal tubule starting at he beginning of the proximal tubule epithelium within the glomerular capsule and extending to the S1 and S2 segments. Localizes also to the basolateral membrane of small intestine enterocytes and to sinusoidal side of perivenous hepatocytes. Highly expressed in small intestine, particularly in jejunum and ileum, scarcely in colon and substantially in kidney, liver and skeletal muscle. Not N-glycosylated. Belongs to the major facilitator superfamily. Monocarboxylate porter (TC 2.A.1.13) family.