Multifunctional transporter with an impact in cell morphology and differentiation. In the presence of borate B(OH)4(-), acts as a voltage-dependent electrogenic Na(+)-coupled B(OH)4(-) cotransporter controlling boron homeostasis . At early stages of stem cell differentiation, participates in synergy with ITGA5-ITGB1 and ITGAV-ITGB3 integrins and BMPR1A to promote cell adhesion and contractility that drives differentiation toward osteogenic commitment while inhibiting adipogenesis (By similarity). In the absence of B(OH)4(-), acts as a Na(+)-coupled OH(-) or H(+) permeable channel with implications in cellular redox balance (, ). Regulates the oxidative stress response in corneal endothelium by enhancing antioxidant defenses and protecting cells from reactive oxygen species . In response to hypo-osmotic challenge, also acts as a water permeable channel at the basolateral cell membrane of corneal endothelial cells and facilitates transendothelial fluid reabsorption in the aqueous humor ( ). In the presence of ammonia, acts as an electrogenic NH3/H(+) cotransporter and may play a role in ammonia transport and reabsorption in renal Henle's loop epithelium .
Subcellular locations: Cell membrane, Basolateral cell membrane
Widely expressed. Highly expressed in kidney, testis, salivary gland, thyroid, trachea and corneal endothelium. Not detected in retina and lymphocytes.
Expressed in corneal endothelium (at protein level).
The predominant isoform in corneal endothelium (at protein level).