Zinc transporter ZIP12

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Zinc transporter ZIP12 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SLC39A12 gene. This protein is a member of the ZIP family of metal ion transporters, which are responsible for the uptake of zinc ions into the cell.

Function[edit | edit source]

Zinc transporter ZIP12 is involved in the transport of zinc from the extracellular space into the cytoplasm of the cell. Zinc is an essential trace element that is crucial for a number of biological processes, including enzyme activity, protein synthesis, and cell division. ZIP12 is expressed in a variety of tissues, including the brain, liver, and kidney, and is thought to play a role in neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Mutations in the SLC39A12 gene have been associated with a number of health conditions. For example, a study published in 2015 found that a mutation in this gene was associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia. Other studies have suggested that ZIP12 may play a role in the development of cancer, as it is often overexpressed in cancerous tissues.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]



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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD