X-Transporter protein 2 (Xtrp2)

The SLC6 family of proteins, which includes SLC6A18, act as specific transporters for neurotransmitters, amino acids, and osmolytes like betaine, taurine, and creatine. SLC6 proteins are sodium cotransporters that derive the energy for solute transport from the electrochemical gradient for sodium ions.

The deduced protein contains 628 amino acids. EST database analysis detected expression in the human central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, and kidney, and in mouse gastrointestinal tract and kidney. RT-PCR of rat tissues detected Slc6a18 expressed at high levels in cerebellum, brainstem, forebrain, lower levels in uterus, adrenal gland, and fat tissue, and no expression in other tissues examined.