Sulfate and phosphate transporters

Sulfate and phosphate transporters are integral membrane proteins belonging to the solute carrier (SLC) superfamily that mediate the translocation of inorganic anions across biological membranes. Phosphate transporters, including the SLC34 (NaPi-II) and SLC20 (PiT) families, are essential for maintaining phosphate homeostasis, which is vital for bone mineralization, energy metabolism, and cellular signaling [1, 2]. Sulfate transporters, primarily within the SLC26 family, facilitate the uptake of sulfate necessary for the sulfation of extracellular matrix components like proteoglycans, particularly in cartilage and bone [3, 4]. Clinical interest in phosphate transporters focuses on managing hyperphosphatemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) through inhibitors like EOS789 or indirect modulators like tenapanor [5, 6]. Conversely, mutations in sulfate transporters are associated with various genetic disorders, including diastrophic dysplasia and Pendred syndrome, highlighting their critical role in development and physiology [7].

Other names

SLC26 familySLC34 familySLC20 familySodium-phosphate cotransportersSulfate anion transportersNaPi transportersPiT transporters

Inhibition of sodium-dependent phosphate cotransport (SLC34/SLC20) to reduce intestinal absorption or renal reabsorption; modulation of sulfate-anion exchange (SLC26) to maintain cartilage integrity and metabolic balance.