DMT1

DMT1 (Divalent Metal Transporter 1), also known as SLC11A2 (Solute Carrier Family 11 Member 2), is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SLC11A2 gene. It is a member of the solute carrier family and plays a crucial role in the absorption of iron in the body.

Function

DMT1 is primarily responsible for the transport of iron from the lumen of the intestine into the enterocyte as well as the transfer of iron from endocytic vesicles into the cytosol following transferrin-mediated endocytosis. It is a proton-coupled metal ion transporter and can transport several other metals in addition to iron, including manganese, cobalt, zinc, and cadmium.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the SLC11A2 gene can lead to various forms of anemia, such as hypochromic microcytic anemia with iron overload. This is due to the impaired ability of the body to absorb iron, leading to iron deficiency. DMT1 is also implicated in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, as these conditions are associated with abnormal iron accumulation in the brain.

See Also

• Iron metabolism
• Solute carrier family
• Anemia
• Parkinson's disease
• Alzheimer's disease

References

DMT1 Resources
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