Zinc transporter ZIP12

Zinc transporter ZIP12 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SLC39A12 gene. This protein is a member of the ZIP family of metal ion transporters, which are responsible for the uptake of zinc ions into the cell.

Function

Zinc transporter ZIP12 is involved in the transport of zinc from the extracellular space into the cytoplasm of the cell. Zinc is an essential trace element that is crucial for a number of biological processes, including enzyme activity, protein synthesis, and cell division. ZIP12 is expressed in a variety of tissues, including the brain, liver, and kidney, and is thought to play a role in neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the SLC39A12 gene have been associated with a number of health conditions. For example, a study published in 2015 found that a mutation in this gene was associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia. Other studies have suggested that ZIP12 may play a role in the development of cancer, as it is often overexpressed in cancerous tissues.

See also

• Zinc transporter
• SLC39A12
• Zinc
• Metal ion transporter