SLC39A7
Description
The SLC39A7 (solute carrier family 39 member 7) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 6.
SLC39A7, also known as ZIP7, is a transmembrane protein involved in zinc transport. It belongs to the ZIP family, which comprises 14 proteins that transport zinc into the cytoplasm. SLC39A7 primarily controls zinc transport from the ER and Golgi apparatus to the cytoplasm, playing a crucial role in zinc homeostasis. It also contributes to glucose metabolism. Structurally, SLC39A7 consists of helices that bind zinc in a binuclear metal center. Its fruit fly orthologue is Catsup. Zinc is essential for numerous enzymatic reactions and plays a vital role in various cellular processes, including metabolism and gene regulation. As zinc cannot freely cross cell membranes, specific transporters like SLC39A7 are needed to facilitate its entry into the cytosol from both the extracellular environment and intracellular storage compartments. The presence of zinc regulates the expression of ZIP transporters.
SLC39A7 transports zinc (Zn(2+)) from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi apparatus to the cytosol, playing a vital role in regulating the levels of zinc within the cell. It acts as a gatekeeper, controlling the release of zinc from intracellular stores. This release is triggered by phosphorylation, a post-translational modification that activates SLC39A7 and sets off a cascade of events that promote cell growth and proliferation. SLC39A7 is essential for the development of B cells and ensures proper signaling through the B cell receptor. It also plays a significant role in maintaining the health of the intestinal epithelium and skin dermis by regulating ER function. Furthermore, SLC39A7 influences cell signaling pathways involved in glucose metabolism within skeletal muscle. It provides protection against ER stress in various biological contexts and mediates a specific form of cell death called ferroptosis that is induced by zinc. SLC39A7 is a homodimer, meaning it functions as a pair of identical protein subunits.
SLC39A7 is also known as AGM9, D6S115E, D6S2244E, H2-KE4, HKE4, KE4, RING5, ZIP7.
