Sodium-dependent phosphate transporter 2 (SLC20A2) (PiT-2)

Sodium-dependent phosphate transporter 2 (PiT-2), encoded by the SLC20A2 gene, is a transmembrane protein essential for maintaining inorganic phosphate homeostasis by facilitating the sodium-coupled uptake of phosphate into cells (UniProt: P41701). It is widely expressed but plays a particularly crucial role in the brain, where it regulates phosphate concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid and prevents the formation of calcium phosphate deposits (PubMed: 22327515). Mutations in SLC20A2 are the most common cause of Primary Familial Brain Calcification (PFBC), a condition leading to progressive neurological symptoms such as parkinsonism, dystonia, and cognitive decline (NCBI Gene: 6575). While PiT-2 is a significant target for understanding and potentially treating ectopic calcification, current pharmacological options are limited to non-specific inhibitors like foscarnet, which can interfere with its transport activity (PubMed: 21233445). Therapeutic strategies targeting PiT-2 must carefully balance local phosphate regulation with systemic mineral metabolism to avoid adverse effects on bone and kidney function.

Other names

SLC20A2Solute carrier family 20 member 2Gibbon ape leukemia virus receptor 2GLVR2Ram-1Pit2

Competitive inhibition of sodium-dependent phosphate transport across the plasma membrane.