Solute carrier family 4 member 11 (SLC4A11)

Solute carrier family 4 member 11 (SLC4A11) is a membrane transporter predominantly expressed in the corneal endothelium, where it plays a key role in regulating intracellular pH and supporting corneal endothelial pump function. Structurally, SLC4A11 features 14 transmembrane domains with glycosylated extracellular loops and cytoplasmic N- and C-termini[1][3]. Despite early hypotheses of borate or bicarbonate transport, consensus now holds that SLC4A11 mediates electrogenic, sodium-coupled hydroxide (OH−) and potentially H+ transport, and is modulated by ammonia and pH[2][3]. This protein is essential for maintaining corneal transparency by facilitating lactate and proton flux, cellular adhesion, and stress responses. Loss-of-function mutations in SLC4A11 are causally linked to autosomal recessive corneal endothelial disorders, impacting fluid regulation and cell survival[3][1][4]. Emerging research also implicates SLC4A11 dysregulation in cancer cell metabolism[3]. Current knowledge points to SLC4A11 as a critical physiological pH regulator and an important, though currently untargeted, transporter in ocular health and disease.

Other names

BTR1NaBC1CDPD1CHEDCHED2FECD4Sodium borate cotransporter 1Bicarbonate transporter related protein 1Sodium-coupled borate cotransporter 1Solute carrier family 4, sodium bicarbonate transporter-like, member 11Solute carrier family 4, sodium borate transporter, member 11dJ794I6.2

No clinically approved drugs known; hypothetical mechanisms include modulation of transporter activity to correct corneal endothelial dysfunction[3]