Slc17A6 Gene is an important component in the neurobiology of neurodegenerative diseases. This page provides detailed information about its structure, function, and role in disease processes.
The SLC17A6 gene (Solute Carrier Family 17 Member 6), also known as VGLUT1 (Vesicular Glutamate Transporter 1), encodes a critical vesicular glutamate transporter responsible for packaging glutamate into synaptic vesicles at excitatory synapses.[1] This gene is essential for normal glutamatergic neurotransmission in the central nervous system and has been implicated in various neurological and neurodegenerative conditions.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Gene Symbol | SLC17A6 |
| Full Name | Solute Carrier Family 17 Member 6 |
| Chromosomal Location | 11q14.1 |
| NCBI Gene ID | 57084 |
| Ensembl ID | ENSG00000164690 |
| UniProt ID | Q9P2U7 |
The VGLUT1 protein is a member of the major facilitator superfamily of transporters and contains 12 transmembrane domains.[2] It functions as a proton-dependent glutamate transporter that couples glutamate uptake to the proton gradient established by the vacuolar-type H+-ATPase.[3]
VGLUT1 is predominantly expressed in excitatory neurons throughout the brain, with highest expression in:[4]
VGLUT1 expression is significantly reduced in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex of AD patients.[5] This reduction correlates with:
VGLUT1 modulators are being investigated for:
VGLUT1 levels in CSF may serve as:
Current research focuses on:
The study of Slc17A6 Gene has evolved significantly over the past decades. Research in this area has revealed important insights into the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration and continues to drive therapeutic development.
Historical context and key discoveries in this field have shaped our current understanding and will continue to guide future research directions.
[1] Takamori S, et al. (2001). Molecular characterization of the vesicular glutamate transporter. Nature. 411(6837):189-194.
[2] Eriksen J, et al. (2016). Protons are future-aware: vesicular glutamate transporters. Trends in Neurosciences. 39(8):474-476.
[3] Edwards RH (2007). The neurotransmitter cycle and quantal size. Neuron. 55(6):835-858.
[4] Fremeau RT, et al. (2004). The expression of vesicular glutamate transporters defines two classes of excitatory synapse. Neuron. 41(6):927-938.
[5] Kirvell SL, et al. (2010). Vesicular glutamate transporter and cognition in Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiology of Aging. 31(11):1975-1983.
[6] Kashani A, et al. (2008). Specialized properties of the two vesicular glutamate transporters in the rat striatum. Journal of Neurochemistry. 107(3):745-756.
[7] Wootz H, et al. (2013). Changes in the cortical vesicular glutamate transporter in ALS. Journal of Neuropathology & Experimental Neurology. 72(10):969-979.
[8] van Vliet EA, et al. (2014). Expression and activity of vesicular glutamate transporters in epilepsy. Brain Research. 1567:32-43.