Slc5a12, also known as sodium-coupled monocarboxylate transporter 2 (SMCT2), is a sodium-coupled low-affinity transporter for monocarboxylates. It is involved in the transport of substances like lactate, nicotinate, propionate, and butyrate, and plays a role in processes such as lactate reabsorption in the kidney, absorption of diet-derived short-chain monocarboxylates in the intestinal tract, and is associated with T-cell-related immune responses [3,1,2].

In c/ebpdelta -/- mice, where the renal expression of both Slc5a8 and Slc5a12 is almost completely ablated, there is a marked increase in urinary excretion of lactate and a decrease in blood lactate levels, providing evidence for an obligatory role of Slc5a12 in renal lactate absorption. Also, antibody-mediated blockade of SLC5A12 ameliorates disease severity in a murine model of arthritis, suggesting its role in chronic inflammatory disorders [4,1].

In conclusion, Slc5a12 is crucial for monocarboxylate transport, especially lactate handling in the kidney. Gene-knockout models like c/ebpdelta -/- mice have revealed its role in renal lactate and urate reabsorption. In addition, its blockade in murine arthritis models indicates its potential as a therapeutic target in chronic inflammatory diseases.