Sulfate ions in mammalian physiology: lessons from sulfate transporter null mice

Abstract

The NaS1 sulfate transporter maintains serum sulfate levels. Several polymorphisms (SNPs) exist in human NaS1, including R12X and N174S. NaS1 null (Nas1−/−) mice exhibit hyposulfatemia and a decreased sulfate content of intestinal mucins. This is relevant to gastrointestinal (GI) physiology because sulfate plays a role in protecting mucins from degradation. Our aims were to functionally characterise human NaS1 SNPs and to determine the effects of hyposulfatemia in Nas1−/− mice on GI physiology. Compared to wild‐type NaS1, R12X and N174S led to 100% & 60% loss of function, respectively. Nas1−/− and Nas1+/+ mice were challenged orally with C. jejuni bact..