What is the Origin of Solute Carrier Family?

The name is derived from the fundamental function: facilitating the transport of "solutes"—dissolved substances—across lipid bilayers. The classification into "Families" reflects shared evolutionary ancestry and structural homology among the over 300 known human members.

What is the Mechanism of Solute Carrier Family?

The mechanism involves conformational changes in the transporter protein, driven by electrochemical gradients or ATP hydrolysis, to shuttle substrates from one side of the membrane to the other. For example, specific SLC transporters are responsible for iodine uptake by the thyroid gland or the efflux of conjugated steroids from the hepatocyte. Proper SLC function ensures that hormones reach their intracellular receptors or are cleared appropriately from circulation.

Solute Carrier Family ∞ Area

Solute Carrier Family

Meaning

The Solute Carrier (SLC) Family represents one of the largest superfamilies of membrane transport proteins responsible for moving a vast array of substances across biological membranes. Within endocrinology, specific SLC members are vital for transporting hormones, thyroid hormone precursors, or their metabolites across the plasma membrane of target or endocrine cells. These transporters are fundamental determinants of cellular bioavailability.