ABC gene family

Genes in the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) family provide instructions for making transporter proteins that carry many types of molecules, such as fats, sugars, protein building blocks (amino acids) and drugs, across cell membranes. In most cases, the transporters move the molecules into specific cell compartments so they can be processed, or out of the cell so they can be used elsewhere or excreted from the body. If the molecules are not transported properly, they may be unavailable where they are needed for body functions. The molecules can also build up over time and damage the cells.

ABC transporter proteins are made in many tissues of the body, and use energy from a molecule called ATP to move substances across the cell membranes. They are grouped together because they all have common structures (domains) that bind to ATP. Most of the genes in this family are designated by the letters ABC and an additional letter indicating the subgroup to which they belong. The subgroup designation is based on their structure and similarity to other transporters in the family. They also receive a number to designate the specific gene within the subgroup, for example ABCA12.