Disease relevance of Slc26a3

• The recently discovered dra (down-regulated in adenoma) gene encodes a transport protein (DRA) for SO4(2-), Cl-, and HCO3-. The aim of this study was to investigate whether DRA may be the duodenal apical Cl-/HCO3- exchanger [1].
• We hypothesize that gestational mortality caused by Dr/Afa+ E. coli is mediated by one of these two proteins, Dra/AfaE or Dra/AfaD [2].

High impact information on Slc26a3

• METHODS: DRA, Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) isoform 3, and anion exchanger isoform (AE) 2 messenger RNA expression levels were studied in rat, rabbit, and human gastrointestinal tract by semiquantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and in situ hybridization (DRA in human intestine) [1].
• Two components of the adhesin, Dra/AfaE and Dra/AfaD, considered virulence factors, are responsible for bacterial binding and internalization [2].
• This indicates that AE1 encodes surface cell-specific aldosterone-regulated Cl/HCO(3) exchange, whereas DRA encodes aldosterone-insensitive Cl/OH exchange [3].
• In contrast, AE2 polypeptide is expressed in basolateral membranes and DRA protein is expressed in apical membranes of both surface and crypt cells [3].

Analytical, diagnostic and therapeutic context of Slc26a3

• Western analysis and immunohistochemistry showed an apical localization for DRA [1].

References