SLC22A1 Gene

What is the SLC22A1 gene?

SLC22A1 encodes solute carrier family 22 member 1 (oct1), a protein involved in organic cation transport / drug metabolism. It belongs to the Pharmacogenomics category and is part of the Detox & Medication Sensitivity biological cluster. SLC22A1 encodes organic cation transporter 1 (OCT1), expressed in the liver, which mediates hepatic uptake of metformin and other organic cations.

Biological role and pathway

SLC22A1 is involved in the organic cation transport / drug metabolism pathway, which plays a central role in regulating physiological processes relevant to immune defence, cellular energy, and systemic homeostasis. Genes within the Detox & Medication Sensitivity cluster work together to maintain balanced function across interconnected biological systems.

Variants in genes within this pathway may influence an individual's predisposition to altered function in these systems — particularly under conditions of physiological stress such as viral infection or prolonged illness.

Known genetic variants

The following variants (SNPs) in the SLC22A1 gene have been studied in relation to pharmacogenomics and chronic illness. Each variant represents a single nucleotide position where individuals may carry different alleles.

• rs622342— SLC22A1 variant
• rs1867351— SLC22A1 variant

Conditions studied in relation to SLC22A1

Research into SLC22A1 variants has explored associations with the following conditions. These are areas of scientific investigation and do not imply that SLC22A1 causes or treats any condition.

Genetic insights from DNA data

Consumer DNA files from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, and MyHeritage contain raw SNP data. When you upload your file to ChronicDNA, the analysis engine checks your genotype against a curated panel of 80+ genes selected for their relevance to Long COVID, ME/CFS, and connected biological pathways - some of which may include SLC22A1 and related genes in the detox & medication sensitivity pathway.

The report is educational - it explains which variants you carry, what the research says about them, and how they fit into the biological pathways most relevant to chronic illness. Results are presented in plain English with appropriate scientific context, no medical jargon, no scare tactics. All results should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

Related genes in the Detox & Medication Sensitivity pathway

SLC22A1 does not act in isolation. The following genes are functionally related and may be analysed together for a more complete picture of your genetic predispositions.

Frequently asked questions