Zinc transporter 8 (ZnT8)

Zinc transporter 8 (ZnT8; SLC30A8) is a membrane protein of the solute carrier family 30 expressed primarily in pancreatic β cells, where it mediates the uptake of zinc ions into insulin secretory granules. ZnT8 is critical for insulin storage as zinc is needed for the formation of insulin hexamers. Genetic polymorphisms in the SLC30A8 gene are associated with altered risks for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes: some risk alleles increase susceptibility, while loss-of-function variants can be protective in Type 2 diabetes. ZnT8 is a major autoantigen in Type 1 diabetes, with ZnT8 autoantibodies used in clinical diagnostics. ZnT8 functions as a Zn^2+/H^+ antiporter, exchanging zinc and protons across the insulin granule membrane. No currently approved drugs specifically target ZnT8, but the protein remains a subject of intense therapeutic interest due to its role in pancreatic function and diabetes risk.

Other names

SLC30A8Solute carrier family 30 member 8ZNT8ZnT-8proton-coupled zinc antiporter SLC30A8solute carrier family 30 (zinc transporter), member 8

Modulation of ZnT8 can alter zinc transport into insulin granules, affecting insulin storage, secretion, and potentially glycemic control. ZnT8 functions as a Zn^2+/H^+ antiporter, exchanging zinc and protons across the insulin granule membrane.