SLC39A4

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

SLC39A4 is a human gene that encodes for the protein ZIP4, a member of the ZIP (Zrt-, Irt-like Protein) family of metal ion transporters. Mutations in this gene have been associated with Acrodermatitis enteropathica, a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by zinc deficiency, dermatitis, and diarrhea.

Function[edit | edit source]

The SLC39A4 gene provides instructions for making a protein that is essential for the absorption of zinc from the diet. This protein, known as ZIP4, is found in the outer membrane of cells in the small intestine, where it transports zinc from the outside of the cell to the inside. Once inside the cell, zinc can be used in many cellular processes.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Mutations in the SLC39A4 gene cause acrodermatitis enteropathica. This condition is characterized by the inability to properly absorb zinc from the diet, leading to zinc deficiency. Symptoms of acrodermatitis enteropathica include severe skin inflammation, hair loss, diarrhea, and impaired immune function. The condition is typically treated with lifelong zinc supplementation.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


External links[edit | edit source]

SLC39A4 Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD