Sodium-dependent phosphate cotransporter 2B (NPT2b) (NPT2b)

Sodium-dependent phosphate cotransporter 2B (NPT2b), encoded by the SLC34A2 gene, is a transmembrane protein that facilitates the active transport of inorganic phosphate into cells, primarily within the small intestine [1, 2]. It is a crucial mediator of dietary phosphate absorption, working alongside sodium ions to maintain systemic phosphate balance [3]. In the context of chronic kidney disease, NPT2b is a major therapeutic target because its inhibition can help manage hyperphosphatemia, a condition linked to cardiovascular calcification and increased mortality [4]. Additionally, NPT2b is expressed in the lung's type II pneumocytes, where it assists in recycling phosphate from surfactant; defects here lead to pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis [1, 5]. The transporter is also highly expressed in several solid tumors, including ovarian and lung adenocarcinomas, making it a viable target for antibody-drug conjugates like lifastuzumab vedotin [6]. Current drug development focuses on small molecule inhibitors to block intestinal absorption and monoclonal antibodies for targeted cancer therapy [4, 6].

Other names

SLC34A2NaPi-IIbNPT2bSodium/phosphate cotransporter 2BSolute carrier family 34 member 2Sodium-dependent phosphate transport protein 2B

Inhibition of sodium-dependent phosphate transport in the intestinal brush border membrane to reduce systemic phosphate levels; Targeted delivery of cytotoxic agents via antibody-drug conjugates in oncology.