This web page was produced as an assignment for Genetics 564, an undergraduate course at UW-Madison
SLC6A4 Protein
The SLC6A4 protein is a 630 amino acid transmembrane protein in the presynaptic membranes of neurons. There are twelve hydrophobic alpha-helix structures, which constitute the twelve transmembrane segments within the protein [1].
Homo sapiens (Human) Solute carrier family 6 (neurotransmitter transporter), member 4 (SLC6A4) Accession Number: NP 001036.1 Length: 630 aa |
These segments create the channel through which serotonin travels back into the presynaptic neuron until it is triggered for release again. In order to bring in those serotonin molecules, SLC6A4 interacts with ions to open and close. Cells generally maintain an inside-negative charge, such that there are more positive ions pumped out than there are in. When serotonin needs to be taken up out of the synaptic gap, positive sodium ions fall down their gradient into the cell. The positive sodium ions attract negative chloride ions, which follow the sodium into the cell as well. The changes in concentration of the different ions initiates a conformation change that lets serotonin pass through the channel and into the neuron [2].
Protein Homology
Protein Phylogeny
Motifs and Domains
Protein Interaction Networks
Post-Translational Modifications
Protein Phylogeny
Motifs and Domains
Protein Interaction Networks
Post-Translational Modifications
References
[1] SLC6A4 - Sodium-dependent serotonin transporter - Homo sapiens (Human). (n.d.). Retrieved February 19, 2015, from http://www.uniprot.org/uniprot/P31645
[2] Mechanism of action of the serotonin transporter. (n.d.). Retrieved February 19, 2015, from http://web.williams.edu/imput/IVB3.html
Pictures from top to bottom:
http://www.bio.davidson.edu/Courses/genomics/2004/Cobain/angergene.html
http://healthadviser24.blogspot.com/2012/08/neurotransmitters-chemical-messenger-of.html
[2] Mechanism of action of the serotonin transporter. (n.d.). Retrieved February 19, 2015, from http://web.williams.edu/imput/IVB3.html
Pictures from top to bottom:
http://www.bio.davidson.edu/Courses/genomics/2004/Cobain/angergene.html
http://healthadviser24.blogspot.com/2012/08/neurotransmitters-chemical-messenger-of.html