Solute carrier family 26 member 4 (Pendrin) (SLC26A4)

Solute carrier family 26 member 4 (SLC26A4), commonly known as pendrin, is a transmembrane protein that functions as an electroneutral anion exchanger, primarily mediating the transport of chloride, bicarbonate, and iodide across cell membranes. It is expressed in specialized epithelial cells within the inner ear, thyroid gland, kidney, and respiratory tract, where it plays a vital role in maintaining ion balance, pH, and fluid homeostasis. Mutations in the SLC26A4 gene are a leading cause of hereditary hearing loss, manifesting as Pendred syndrome—characterized by sensorineural deafness and thyroid goiter—or non-syndromic enlarged vestibular aqueduct. In the kidney, pendrin contributes to blood pressure regulation by mediating salt reabsorption in the cortical collecting duct, making it a potential target for novel diuretic therapies to treat hypertension and edema. Additionally, pendrin is significantly upregulated in inflammatory airway diseases such as asthma and cystic fibrosis, where it promotes mucus production and airway surface liquid depletion, positioning it as a promising therapeutic target for respiratory conditions.

Other names

PendrinPDSSolute carrier family 26 member 4Sodium-independent chloride/iodide transporter

Inhibition of anion exchange activity (primarily Cl-/HCO3- or Cl-/I- transport) to modulate fluid volume, pH, or salt excretion.