Health Topics

Skip navigation

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( Lock Locked padlock icon ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

You Are Here:
Home →
Genetics →
Genes →
SLC11A2 gene
URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/slc11a2/

SLC11A2 gene

solute carrier family 11 member 2

Normal Function

The SLC11A2 gene provides instructions for making a protein called divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1). Four different versions (isoforms) of the DMT1 protein are produced from the SLC11A2 gene. Each isoform is specific to one or more tissues, but some form of the DMT1 protein is found in all tissues. The primary role of the DMT1 protein is to transport positively charged iron atoms (ions) within cells; however, the protein can transport some other metal ions as well.

In a section of the small intestine called the duodenum, the DMT1 protein is located within finger-like projections called microvilli. These projections absorb nutrients from food as it passes through the intestine and then release them into the bloodstream. In all other cells, including immature red blood cells called erythroblasts, DMT1 is located in the membrane of endosomes, which are specialized compartments that are formed at the cell surface to carry proteins and other molecules to their destinations within the cell. DMT1 transports iron from the endosomes to the cytoplasm so it can be used by the cell.

Health Conditions Related to Genetic Changes

Hypochromic microcytic anemia with iron overload

At least seven mutations in the SLC11A2 gene have been found to cause hypochromic microcytic anemia with iron overload. This condition is characterized by a shortage of red blood cells (anemia) that is apparent at birth. The red blood cells that are produced are abnormally small (microcytic) and pale (hypochromic). There is also progressive accumulation of iron in the liver.

Most SLC11A2 gene mutations that cause this condition change single protein building blocks (amino acids) in the DMT1 protein. These mutations lead to reduced production of the DMT1 protein, decreased protein function, or impaired ability of the protein to get to the correct location in cells. In erythroblasts, a shortage of DMT1 protein diminishes the amount of iron transported within cells, even though there is an abundance of iron in the blood. As a result, the development of healthy red blood cells is impaired, leading to a shortage of these cells. In the duodenum, a shortage of DMT1 protein decreases iron absorption. To compensate, cells increase production of functional DMT1 protein, which increases iron absorption. Because the red blood cells cannot use the iron that is absorbed, it accumulates in the liver, eventually impairing liver function. The lack of iron in red blood cells and the accumulation of iron in the liver lead to the signs and symptoms of hypochromic microcytic anemia with iron overload.

More About This Health Condition

Other Names for This Gene

  • DCT1
  • divalent cation transporter 1
  • DMT-1
  • DMT1
  • natural resistance-associated macrophage protein 2
  • NRAMP 2
  • NRAMP2
  • solute carrier family 11 (proton-coupled divalent metal ion transporter), member 2
  • solute carrier family 11 (proton-coupled divalent metal ion transporters), member 2

Additional Information & Resources

Tests Listed in the Genetic Testing Registry

Scientific Articles on PubMed

Catalog of Genes and Diseases from OMIM

Gene and Variant Databases

References

  • Bardou-Jacquet E, Island ML, Jouanolle AM, Detivaud L, Fatih N, Ropert M, Brissot E, Mosser A, Maisonneuve H, Brissot P, Loreal O. A novel N491S mutation in the human SLC11A2 gene impairs protein trafficking and in association with the G212V mutation leads to microcytic anemia and liver iron overload. Blood Cells Mol Dis. 2011 Dec 15;47(4):243-8. doi: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2011.07.004. Epub 2011 Aug 26. Citation on PubMed
  • Beaumont C, Delaunay J, Hetet G, Grandchamp B, de Montalembert M, Tchernia G. Two new human DMT1 gene mutations in a patient with microcytic anemia, low ferritinemia, and liver iron overload. Blood. 2006 May 15;107(10):4168-70. doi: 10.1182/blood-2005-10-4269. Epub 2006 Jan 26. Citation on PubMed
  • Iolascon A, De Falco L. Mutations in the gene encoding DMT1: clinical presentation and treatment. Semin Hematol. 2009 Oct;46(4):358-70. doi: 10.1053/j.seminhematol.2009.06.005. Citation on PubMed
  • Lam-Yuk-Tseung S, Camaschella C, Iolascon A, Gros P. A novel R416C mutation in human DMT1 (SLC11A2) displays pleiotropic effects on function and causes microcytic anemia and hepatic iron overload. Blood Cells Mol Dis. 2006 May-Jun;36(3):347-54. doi: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2006.01.011. Epub 2006 Apr 3. Citation on PubMed
  • Mims MP, Prchal JT. Divalent metal transporter 1. Hematology. 2005 Aug;10(4):339-45. doi: 10.1080/10245330500093419. Citation on PubMed
  • Priwitzerova M, Nie G, Sheftel AD, Pospisilova D, Divoky V, Ponka P. Functional consequences of the human DMT1 (SLC11A2) mutation on protein expression and iron uptake. Blood. 2005 Dec 1;106(12):3985-7. doi: 10.1182/blood-2005-04-1550. Epub 2005 Aug 9. Citation on PubMed
  • Shawki A, Knight PB, Maliken BD, Niespodzany EJ, Mackenzie B. H(+)-coupled divalent metal-ion transporter-1: functional properties, physiological roles and therapeutics. Curr Top Membr. 2012;70:169-214. doi: 10.1016/B978-0-12-394316-3.00005-3. Citation on PubMed

The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.