{
  "id": 17972977,
  "title": "Structural Basis for Inhibition of Human Anion Transporter SLC26A6/PAT-1",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/03/structural-basis-for-inhibition-of-human-anion-transporter-slc26a6",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-11-03T00:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "bioRxiv",
    "slug": "biorxiv",
    "url": "https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.64898/2026.11.01.757131v1?rss=1"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The human anion transporter PAT-1, also known as SLC26A6, is a crucial protein responsible for the exchange of small organic and inorganic anions such as oxalate and chloride in the kidney and intestines. Mutations in the gene encoding PAT-1 have been linked to conditions like nephrolithiasis and hyperoxaluria. Furthermore, understanding and manipulating PAT-1 could potentially lead to new therapeutic strategies for cystic fibrosis. Researchers have already discovered two small-molecule inhibitors targeting PAT-1: DIDS, a general anion exchanger inhibitor, and PAT1inh-B01, a highly specific inhibitor.\n\nIn this study, the authors present the high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy structures of the human PAT-1 homodimer when bound to these inhibitors. These structures reveal the distinct inhibition mechanisms employed by DIDS and PAT1inh-B01. Moreover, the findings shed light on the intricate interactions between various domains of PAT-1, including the transmembrane, STAS, and N-terminal regions. This understanding of the complex interplay between these domains and the inhibitors provides valuable insights into the molecular function of PAT-1. Ultimately, this research contributes significantly to our comprehension of SLC26 transport mechanisms and offers a deeper mechanistic understanding of PAT-1.",
  "summary": "PAT-1, encoded by the gene SLC26A6, is an exchanger of small organic and inorganic anions including oxalate and chloride in the kidney and the intestines. PAT-1 dysfunction is implicated in nephrolithiasis and hyperoxaluria, and its modulation is a potential therapeutic strategy to treat cystic fibrosis. PAT-1 has two small molecule inhibitors: DIDS, a non-specific anion exchanger inhibitor; and…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}