Sodium bicarbonate cotransporter 3 (SLC4A7)

Sodium bicarbonate cotransporter 3 (SLC4A7, also known as NBCn1) is a member of the solute carrier family 4, functioning as an electroneutral sodium and bicarbonate cotransporter found in the plasma membrane of many cell types including those in the nervous, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal systems[2][4][5][6]. By coupling the movement of Na⁺ and HCO₃⁻ ions, SLC4A7 plays a crucial role in regulating intracellular pH, acid–base homeostasis, and transepithelial movement of electrolytes. The transporter exists in numerous splice variants and participates in net acid extrusion, cellular volume regulation, and modulation of cell survival. Dysfunction has been linked to cardiovascular pathologies, certain cancers, and potentially neurological diseases[2][5][6]. While targeted inhibitors are under research for cancer therapy, no approved drugs currently act directly on SLC4A7, making it a promising but as-yet underexploited therapeutic target[2].

Other names

NBCn1Na⁺/HCO₃⁻ cotransporterSolute carrier family 4 member 7

Inhibitors block sodium and bicarbonate ion cotransport for modulation of pH and cell viability, particularly in cancer therapeutics research[2]