SLC16A2

SLC16A2 encodes the monocarboxylate transporter 8 (MCT8), also known as solute carrier family 16 member 2. This protein is crucial for the transport of thyroid hormones across cell membranes. It operates by facilitating the sodium - independent exchange of thyroid hormones, playing a key role in hormone homeostasis. MCT8 is involved in the thyroid hormone signaling pathway, which regulates metabolism and development.
Mutations in SLC16A2 are linked to Allan - Herndon - Dudley syndrome, a severe X - linked psychomotor retardation disorder. In drug development, research is exploring compounds to modulate MCT8 activity, aiming to mitigate the effects of related diseases and improve thyroid hormone transport, though significant progress is yet to be achieved.