Solute carrier family 22 member 16 (SLC22A16)

Solute carrier family 22 member 16 (SLC22A16) is a transmembrane protein functioning as a high-affinity carnitine transporter and member of the organic zwitterion/cation transporter family. It is primarily involved in carnitine and polyamine (spermidine) transport, and has been shown to mediate the cellular uptake of various chemotherapeutic agents, such as doxorubicin, bleomycin, and cisplatin. SLC22A16 is typically expressed at high levels in the testis (notably Sertoli cells and epididymal epithelium), supporting sperm maturation, with lower expression in other tissues. Overexpression in several cancer types enhances drug uptake and may influence tumor sensitivity to chemotherapy, making it a potential therapeutic target and biomarker in oncology. Genetic polymorphisms and variable expression impact both physiological and pharmacological responses, with relevance for treatment personalization and drug safety.

Other names

Carnitine transporter 2 (CT2)Fly-like putative transporter 2 (FLIPT2, Flipt 2)Organic cation transporter OKB1Organic cation/carnitine transporter 6OCT6

Drugs such as doxorubicin and cisplatin are transported into cells via SLC22A16, influencing their intracellular concentration and cytotoxic efficacy—especially relevant in cancer therapies