Slc25a45, a member of the mitochondrial solute carrier family 25, is involved in transporting molecules across the mitochondrial membrane [3]. It may play roles in various biological processes such as metabolism, given its mitochondrial association, and is potentially linked to pathways related to energy production within the mitochondria. Genetic models could be valuable for studying its functions in depth.

In one study, in tissue transglutaminase (TG2) knock-out mice, preadipocytes and beige cells from epididymal fat had decreased expression of Slc25a45, along with other solute carrier proteins. This led to multiple mitochondrial impairments like altered electron transport, reduced oxygen consumption, and lower UCP1 protein content, suggesting Slc25a45 is important for normal mitochondrial function in thermogenesis [1]. In prenatal testosterone-treated female sheep, the expression of Slc25a45 was downregulated, and it was identified as a potential biomarker of prenatal testosterone excess, indicating its role in metabolic dysregulation [2].

In conclusion, Slc25a45 is essential for mitochondrial functions as demonstrated by model-based research. Its downregulation in certain models is associated with metabolic dysregulation and abnormal mitochondrial function in processes like thermogenesis. Understanding Slc25a45 could potentially provide insights into metabolic-related diseases and mitochondrial-associated disorders.