Chloride intracellular channel protein 6 (CLIC6)

Chloride intracellular channel protein 6 (CLIC6) is the most recently discovered member of the CLIC family, encoding a protein that can exist in both soluble and membrane-bound forms. It is unique for its ability to undergo structural transitions, allowing it to form a functional, voltage-dependent chloride-selective ion channel regulated by membrane potential, pH, and cellular redox state. The protein is most abundant in the lung and brain and has been found in mitochondrial, plasma, and organelle membranes, where it contributes to chloride ion homeostasis, pH regulation, and possibly redox balance. CLIC6 is implicated in several diseases including various cancers, genetic forms of deafness, retinitis pigmentosa, and may also interact with dopamine D2-like receptors. Its channel activity can be experimentally blocked by IAA-94, but no drugs are known to target CLIC6 clinically as of now.

Other names

Chloride intracellular channel 6CLIC6CLIC1LCLIC5Glutaredoxin-like oxidoreductase CLIC6Parchorinchloride channel form Aparchorin

Blockage of chloride conductance by small-molecule inhibitors (IAA-94), likely through direct interaction/block of channel pore. Not therapeutically targeted by clinically approved drugs as of current knowledge.