Sodium-coupled monocarboxylate transporter 1 (SLC5A8)

Sodium-coupled monocarboxylate transporter 1 (SLC5A8) is a membrane protein belonging to the solute carrier (SLC) family 5, functioning primarily as a high-affinity sodium-coupled transporter for monocarboxylates such as short-chain fatty acids, lactate, pyruvate, ketone bodies, iodide, and nicotinate. Expressed in tissues like the intestine, kidney, thyroid, brain, and retina, SLC5A8 plays a critical physiological role in the absorption and reabsorption of these metabolites and vitamins. SLC5A8 also acts as a tumor suppressor, with its expression frequently silenced by DNA methylation in multiple cancer types. It is relevant in pharmacology due to its interaction with various drugs (as a substrate or inhibitor) and is essential for the uptake and efficacy of some antitumor agents. Mechanistically, SLC5A8 can induce tumor cell apoptosis and arrest the cell cycle, partly through the uptake of inhibitors of histone deacetylases and modulation of survivin levels[1][2][3][4][6][9].

Other names

SMCT1SMCTApical iodide transporterElectrogenic sodium monocarboxylate cotransporterSodium iodide-related cotransporterAITSolute carrier family 5 member 8

Sodium-coupled co-transport of monocarboxylates (e.g., lactate, pyruvate, short-chain fatty acids). Induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in tumor cells when functional, especially in presence of HDAC inhibitors like butyrate and pyruvate. Drugs can act as substrates (transported), blockers (inhibit transport), or require SLC5A8 for therapeutic efficacy.