SLC11A1
Function
Macrophage-specific antiporter that fluxes metal ions in either direction against a proton gradient. Localized to late endosomal lysosomal membranes, delivers bivalent cations from the cytosol into these acidic compartments where they may directly affect antimicrobial activity (PubMed:11237855). Involved in iron metabolism and host natural resistance to infection with intracellular parasites. Pathogen resistance involves sequestration of Fe(2+) and Mn(2+), cofactors of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic catalases and superoxide dismutases, not only to protect the macrophage against its own generation of reactive oxygen species, but to deny the cations to the pathogen for synthesis of its protective enzymes (Probable).
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the NRAMP family.
Tissue Specificity
Macrophages; peripheral blood leukocytes, lung, spleen and liver.
Cellular localization
- Late endosome membrane
- Multi-pass membrane protein
- Lysosome membrane
- Multi-pass membrane protein
Alternative names
LSH, NRAMP, NRAMP1, SLC11A1, Natural resistance-associated macrophage protein 1, NRAMP 1, Solute carrier family 11 member 1