The Slc37 gene family consists of four members which have 10-12 predicted transmembrane domains and belong to the sugar-phosphate transporter superfamily. Recent experiments have demonstrated that Slc37A2 is a macrophage-specific gene selectively expressed in obese white adipose tissue. Its transcript is also expressed in spleen and thymus and the cell lines RAW264.7 and THP-1. Compared to wild-type mice, Slc37A2 mRNA is expressed at nine-fold higher levels in abdominal epididymal fat deposits of ob/ob mice, suggesting that it may be required to limit the contribution of macrophages to the inflammatory state present in obesity. Slc37A2 protein is post-translationally modified with the addition of N-linked glycans and migrates as a heterogeneous species of 50-75kDa.
