Heterodimer with SLC3A2, that functions as an antiporter by mediating the exchange of extracellular anionic L-cystine and intracellular L-glutamate across the cellular plasma membrane. Provides L-cystine for the maintenance of the redox balance between extracellular L-cystine and L-cysteine and for the maintenance of the intracellular levels of glutathione that is essential for cells protection from oxidative stress. The transport is sodium-independent, electroneutral with a stoichiometry of 1:1, and is drove by the high intracellular concentration of L-glutamate and the intracellular reduction of L-cystine. In addition, mediates the import of L-kynurenine leading to anti-ferroptotic signaling propagation required to maintain L-cystine and glutathione homeostasis. Moreover, mediates N-acetyl-L-cysteine uptake into the placenta leading to subsequently down-regulation of pathways associated with oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis. In vitro can also transport L-aspartate. May participate in astrocyte and meningeal cell proliferation during development and can provide neuroprotection by promoting glutathione synthesis and delivery from non-neuronal cells such as astrocytes and meningeal cells to immature neurons. Controls the production of pheomelanin pigment directly 