SLC6A4 (solute carrier family 6 member 4)

Abstract

The SLC6A4 gene encodes a sodium-dependent serotonin reuptake protein delivering the neurotransmitter serotonin from the synaptic cleft back to the presynaptic end. Its main function is to abort the activity of serotonin and forward it to neurotransmitter pool for recycling. The psychomotor stimulant drugs mainly amphetamines and cocaine act on this transmembrane protein which is a member of the sodium: neurotransmitter symporter family. SLC6A4 gene polymorphisms affect the rate of serotonin reuptake and play an important role in pathogenesis of various illnesses like Sudden infant death syndrome, aggressive behaviour in Alzheimer patients, Seasonal affective disorder, Major depressive Disorder and Obsessive-compulsive disorder.