Membrane-associated transporter protein (MATP)

Membrane-associated transporter protein (MATP), also known as solute carrier family 45 member 2 (SLC45A2), is a membrane transporter crucial for melanin synthesis in melanocytes by mediating the transport of molecules necessary for melanosome function and possibly regulating melanosomal pH.[1][2][3][7][8] It is a critical gene for pigmentation in humans and other species; mutations result in oculocutaneous albinism type 4 and contribute to normal phenotypic variation in skin, hair, and eye color.[1][3][8] SLC45A2 is also expressed in a high percentage of melanoma cell lines and is under investigation as a potential target for T cell-based immunotherapies due to its specificity and lower risk of triggering autoimmune toxicity compared to other melanocyte antigens.[1]

Other names

membrane-associated transporter proteinsolute carrier family 45 member 2SLC45A2melanoma antigen AIM1AIM-1MATPOCA4