SLC26A3

The protein encoded by this gene is a transmembrane glycoprotein that transports chloride ions across the cell membrane in exchange for bicarbonate ions. It is localized to the mucosa of the lower intestinal tract, particularly to the apical membrane of columnar epithelium and some goblet cells. The protein is essential for intestinal chloride absorption, and mutations in this gene have been associated with congenital chloride diarrhea. [provided by RefSeq]

Full Name

solute carrier family 26, member 3

Function

Chloride/bicarbonate exchanger. Mediates the efficient absorption of chloride ions in the colon, participating in fluid homeostasis. Plays a role in the chloride and bicarbonate homeostasis during sperm epididymal maturation and capacitation.

Biological Process

Biological Process anion transportManual Assertion Based On ExperimentTAS:ProtInc
Biological Process cellular response to cAMPISS:UniProtKB
Biological Process intracellular pH elevationISS:UniProtKB
Biological Process ion transportTAS:Reactome
Biological Process membrane hyperpolarizationISS:UniProtKB
Biological Process sperm capacitationISS:UniProtKB

Cellular Location

Apical cell membrane
Membrane
Localized in sperm membranes. Midpiece of sperm tail. Colocalizes with CFTR at the midpiece of sperm tail (By similarity).

Involvement in disease

Diarrhea 1, secretory chloride, congenital (DIAR1):
A disease characterized by voluminous watery stools containing an excess of chloride. The children with this disease are often premature.

PTM

N-glycosylation is required for efficient cell surface expression, and protection from proteolytic degradation.