SLC6A4

Full Name: Solute carrier family 6 (neurotransmitter transporter, serotonin), member 4

BACKGROUND: This gene encodes an integral membrane protein that transports the neurotransmitter serotonin from synaptic spaces into presynaptic neurons. The encoded protein terminates the action of serotonin and recycles it in a sodium-dependent manner. This protein is a target of psychomotor stimulants, such as amphetamines and cocaine, and is a member of the sodium:neurotransmitter symporter family. A repeat length polymorphism in the promoter of this gene has been shown to affect the rate of serotonin uptake and may play a role in sudden infant death syndrome, aggressive behavior in Alzheimer disease patients, and depression-susceptibility in people experiencing emotional trauma.

Synonyms: SLC6A4; SERT; Solute Carrier Family 6 Member 4; HTT; 5-HTT; Na+/Cl- Dependent Serotonin Transporter; Sodium-Dependent Serotonin Transporter; Serotonin Transporter 1; 5HTT; Solute Carrier Family 6 (Neurotransmitter Transporter, Serotonin), Member 4; SERT1