SLC6A4

SLC6A4, sodium-dependent neurotransmitter transporter protein, alias 5-hydroxytryptamine transporter (5-HTT), SERT, etc. SLC6A4 is a transmembrane protein responsible for the reuptake of 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) in the brain and is encoded by its own gene in human cells. Its mechanism of action is mainly to move 5-hydroxytryptamine from the synaptic gap back to the neuron through the cotransport of sodium and chloride ions, terminating its signaling effect, thus regulating physiological processes such as mood, sleep, appetite, etc. The signaling pathway of SLC6A4 involves the 5-hydroxytryptaminergic nervous system, and its activity is regulated by a variety of factors, including intra- and extracellular ion concentrations, neurotransmitter concentrations, and drug SLC6A4 has a wide range of biological significance, which is not only involved in mood regulation and cognitive functions, but also closely related to the development of many mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.

Polymorphisms in the SLC6A4 gene are associated with the individual's susceptibility to depression, and one of the mechanisms of action of antidepressant medications is to increase the concentration of 5-hydroxytryptophan in the synaptic gap to achieve this. In addition, functional abnormalities of SLC6A4 may be associated with certain neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, SLC6A4 is an important target for psychopharmacological research and treatment of psychiatric diseases.