SLC9A6 : solute carrier family 9 member A6
Description
The SLC9A6 (solute carrier family 9 member A6) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome X.
The SLC9A6 gene instructs the production of the sodium/hydrogen exchanger 6 (Na+/H+ exchanger 6 or NHE6) protein. NHE6 proteins are located in cell membranes or within compartments within cells, acting as channels for sodium ions (Na+) to enter the cell or compartment in exchange for hydrogen ions (H+), which are expelled. This exchange regulates the acidity (pH) of the cell or compartment. NHE6 is found in endosomes, compartments within cells that recycle proteins and cellular materials. NHE6 controls the pH within endosomes, vital for their recycling function. Additionally, NHE6 may play a role in protein trafficking, ensuring proteins reach their correct locations within the cell.
SLC9A6 acts as an endosomal sodium/potassium/hydrogen exchanger, facilitating the exchange of protons (H+) from the endosome lumen for sodium (Na+) or potassium (K+) ions from the cytosol. This process helps neutralize the acidity generated by the vacuolar ATPase, maintaining a balanced pH within endosomes. This function is critical for endosome maturation and the trafficking of recycled cargo. Notably, SLC9A6 plays a crucial role during neurodevelopment, impacting synaptic development and plasticity. Furthermore, it contributes to cell polarity by modulating intravesicular pH and regulates intracellular pH in specialized cells like osteoclasts and stereocilia, where it localizes to the plasma membrane.
SLC9A6 is also known as MRSA, MRXSCH, NHE6.
