Related Experiment Videos
SLC19: the folate/thiamine transporter family
Vadivel Ganapathy1, Sylvia B Smith, Puttur D Prasad
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, GA 30912-2100, Augusta, USA, vganapat@mail.mcg.edu
Pflugers Archiv : European Journal of Physiology
|February 11, 2004
Summary
The SLC19 gene family comprises three transporters crucial for folate and thiamine uptake, energized by proton gradients. This review details their structure, function, and physiological roles.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The SLC19 gene family includes three structurally similar transporter proteins.
- These transporters are vital for cellular uptake of essential water-soluble vitamins: folate and thiamine.
- Transport is concentrative and driven by the transcellular H(+)/OH(-) gradient.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current knowledge on the SLC19 gene family.
- To summarize structural, functional, molecular, and physiological aspects of SLC19 transporters.
- To highlight the distinct roles and substrate specificities of SLC19A1, SLC19A2, and SLC19A3.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on the SLC19 gene family.
- Analysis of structural, functional, and physiological data.
- Comparison of substrate transport mechanisms and cellular localization.
Main Results:
- SLC19A1 transports reduced folate and analogs (e.g., methotrexate), which are anionic.
- SLC19A2 and SLC19A3 transport thiamine, a cation.
- Members exhibit ubiquitous or widespread expression with polarized localization in absorptive cells.
Conclusions:
- The SLC19 gene family plays a critical role in vitamin transport.
- Differential expression and substrate specificity allow for specialized physiological functions.
- Understanding these transporters is key to comprehending nutrient uptake and related pathologies.