SLC10A1

SLC10A1, also known as the sodium/taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP), is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SLC10A1 gene. This protein is primarily expressed in the liver and plays a crucial role in the enterohepatic circulation of bile acids.

Function

The SLC10A1 protein is a member of the solute carrier family 10, which is involved in the transport of bile acids and other organic anions. It functions as a sodium-dependent transporter, facilitating the uptake of bile acids from the portal blood into hepatocytes. This process is essential for the recycling of bile acids, which are critical for the digestion and absorption of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins.

The transport activity of SLC10A1 is driven by the sodium gradient across the hepatocyte membrane, which is maintained by the Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase pump. The cotransport of sodium ions and bile acids into the cell is an example of secondary active transport.

Clinical Significance

Mutations in the SLC10A1 gene can lead to disorders in bile acid metabolism. For instance, defects in this gene have been associated with a condition known as primary bile acid malabsorption, which can result in chronic diarrhea and fat malabsorption.

Additionally, SLC10A1 has been identified as a receptor for the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis D virus (HDV), making it a target for therapeutic interventions aimed at preventing viral entry into hepatocytes.

Research and Therapeutic Implications

Understanding the function and regulation of SLC10A1 is important for developing treatments for liver diseases and conditions associated with bile acid dysregulation. Inhibitors of SLC10A1 are being explored as potential therapies for reducing bile acid reabsorption in conditions such as cholestasis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Also see

• Bile acid metabolism
• Hepatocyte
• Sodium-dependent transporters
• Hepatitis B virus
• Cholestasis