Neurotransmitter transporters: three important gene families for neuronal function

Abstract

Three distinct gene families encode transporter proteins that aid in temporal and spatial buffering of neurotransmitter and neurotransmitter metabolite concentrations and allow neurons to cycle and recycle transmitter molecules. Analyses of these gene families and their products are likely to enhance understanding of the molecular neurobiology of neuronal function and may elucidate contributors to the genetic etiologies of neurological and psychiatric disease.