SLC20A1

SLC20A1 encodes the sodium-dependent phosphate transporter 1 (PiT-1), also known as Glvr-1, a transmembrane protein mediating cellular uptake of inorganic phosphate (Pi) via sodium co-transport. Functioning primarily in renal and intestinal epithelia, PiT-1 maintains phosphate homeostasis critical for ATP synthesis, membrane integrity, and mineralization. It interacts with signaling pathways including the Wnt/β-catenin cascade, influencing skeletal development and vascular calcification. Dysregulated SLC20A1 expression is implicated in pathologies such as primary familial brain calcification (PFBC), chronic kidney disease-mineral bone disorder (CKD-MBD), and atherosclerosis. Recent studies highlight its role in tumor microenvironments, where phosphate flux modulates cell proliferation. While no direct PiT-1-targeted therapies exist, phosphate-lowering agents (e.g., nicotinamide) and calcimimetics are explored for related disorders. Structural studies of PiT-1's retroviral receptor homology may inform future drug design against phosphate-associated diseases.