SLC16 Family: From Atomic Structure to Human Disease

Patrick D. Bosshart, Roch Philippe Charles, Rachel Ann A. Garibsingh, Avner Schlessinger, Dimitrios Fotiadis

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

34 Scopus citations

Abstract

The solute carrier 16 (SLC16) family represents a diverse group of membrane proteins mediating the transport of monocarboxylates across biological membranes. Family members show a variety of functional roles ranging from nutrient transport and intracellular pH regulation to thyroid hormone homeostasis. Changes in the expression levels and transport function of certain SLC16 transporters are manifested in severe health disorders including cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders. L-Lactate-transporting SLC16 family members play essential roles in the metabolism of certain tumors and became validated drug targets. This review illuminates the SLC16 family under a new light using structural information obtained from a SLC16 homolog. Furthermore, the role of these transporters in cancer metabolism and how their inhibition can contribute to anticancer therapy are discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)28-40
Number of pages13
JournalTrends in Biochemical Sciences
Volume46
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2021

Keywords

  • L-lactate
  • Warburg effect
  • membrane protein
  • metabolic symbiosis
  • monocarboxylate transporter
  • solute carrier 16 family

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