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SLCO1B3 gene
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Gene

SLCO1B3 gene

The SLCO1B3 gene provides instructions for a protein that transports compounds from the blood into the liver for clearance from the body.

Normal Function

The SLCO1B3 gene provides instructions for making a protein called organic anion transporting polypeptide 1B3, or OATP1B3. This protein is located in liver cells and is responsible for transporting various compounds from the blood into the liver to be cleared from the body. Substances transported by OATP1B3 include:

  • Bilirubin: A yellowish substance produced when red blood cells break down.
  • Hormones
  • Toxins
  • Drugs: Including statins, heart disease medications, certain antibiotics, and some cancer treatments.

Health Conditions Related to Genetic Changes

Rotor syndrome

Mutations in the SLCO1B3 gene are involved in Rotor syndrome, a condition characterized by elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood, which can cause jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes). For this condition to occur, an individual must have mutations in both the SLCO1B3 gene and a related gene called SLCO1B1.

The OATP1B1 protein has a similar transport function to OATP1B3. When both proteins are nonfunctional or absent—sometimes due to a deletion of genetic material affecting both genes—the liver cannot efficiently take up and clear bilirubin. This buildup of bilirubin results in the jaundice observed in individuals with Rotor syndrome.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary symptom of Rotor syndrome is jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, caused by elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood. Unlike some other conditions causing jaundice, Rotor syndrome is generally considered a benign condition. It typically does not lead to severe liver damage or other serious health complications, and individuals with Rotor syndrome usually have a normal life expectancy.
Rotor syndrome is typically diagnosed based on persistent, mild jaundice and specific patterns of bilirubin in blood and urine tests. Genetic testing can confirm the diagnosis by identifying mutations in both the SLCO1B3 gene and the related SLCO1B1 gene. Since both proteins need to be nonfunctional for the condition to occur, finding mutations in both genes helps differentiate Rotor syndrome from other causes of elevated bilirubin.
Rotor syndrome usually does not require specific treatment or lifestyle changes because it is a benign condition that does not cause significant health problems. The elevated bilirubin levels are generally mild and do not lead to liver damage. Management typically involves monitoring and reassurance, as the jaundice itself is not harmful.
Yes, because the OATP1B3 protein is involved in transporting various drugs from the blood into the liver for clearance, individuals with Rotor syndrome may have altered processing of certain medications. This could potentially affect the effectiveness or side effects of drugs like statins, some heart disease medications, certain antibiotics, and some cancer treatments. It is important to inform your doctor about your diagnosis so they can consider this when prescribing medications.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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