“SLC-omics” of the kidney: solute transporters along the nephron

Abstract

The fluid in the 14 distinct segments of the renal tubule undergoes sequential transport processes that gradually convert the glomerular filtrate into the final urine. The solute carrier (SLC) family of proteins is responsible for much of the transport of ions and organic molecules along the renal tubule. In addition, some SLC family proteins mediate housekeeping functions by transporting substrates for metabolism. Here, we have developed a curated list of SLC family proteins. We used the list to produce resource webpages that map these proteins and their transcripts to specific segments along the renal tubule. The data were used to highlight some interesting features of expression along the renal tubule including sex-specific expression in the proximal tubule and the role of accessory proteins (β-subunit proteins) that are thought to be important for polarized targeting in renal tubule epithelia. Also, as an example of application of the data resource, we describe the patterns of acid-base transporter expression along the renal tubule.

Transcriptomics secondary analysis of severe human infection with SARS-CoV-2 identifies gene expression changes and predicts three transcriptional biomarkers in leukocytes

“…The DGKH gene has been identified previously as differentially expressed in sarcoidosis [66] ; however, it has not been found in association with severe COVID-19. SLC26A6 is translated into a protein that regulates the concentrations of multiple anions in the cell [67] , [68] , and may be affected during oxidative stress [69] . Although it has been identified as a cancer biomarker [70] , it has not been reported previously as being associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection.…”

Base (HCO3 −/CO3 2−) Transport Properties of SLC4 Proteins: New Insights in Acid-Base Kidney Physiology

“…Apical NDCBE has been hypothesized to mediate coupled NaCl influx with pendrin 17 ; however, it is not depicted, given the lack of studies showing its expression in this cell type. 38–41…”

“…The base transported by AE2 has also not been studied; however, the transporter is typically shown as mediating Cl 2 /HCO 3 2 exchange by analogy with AE1. (C) Collecting duct Type A IC-basolateral membrane AE1.NBCe2 is not depicted given both its controversial and potentially species-dependent localization and very low expression level in the nephron [38][39][40][41]. (D) Collecting duct Type B IC-basolateral AE4.…”

Crucial Convolution: Genetic and Molecular Mechanisms of Coiling during Epididymis Formation and Development in Embryogenesis

“…Many of the mechanistic regulators of epididymal coiling have been uncovered using transgenic rodent models. In this respect, the epididymis is not alone—numerous other tubular structures are similarly present with boundaries defined by the tight expression of transcription factors such as rhombomeres in the hindbrain [ 9 ], seminiferous tubules of the testes [ 10 ] and regions within the tubules of the kidney [ 11 ]. In fact, it appears clear that transcriptional demarcation, at least in mammals, may be a conserved hallmark in all tubular structures, governing embryonic development, coiling during maturation and/or subsequent function in the adult.…”