SLC22A11 encodes OAT4 (organic anion transporter 4), a membrane transporter that facilitates the bidirectional transport of organic anions across cell membranes via antiporter mechanisms 1. The transporter plays a critical role in urate homeostasis by mediating urate transport in the kidneys, contributing to serum urate regulation and hyperuricemia risk 23. SLC22A11 transports various substrates including steroid sulfates, prostaglandins, and uremic toxins such as p-cresol sulfate and indoxyl sulfate 1. Functionally, the transporter exhibits a unique mechanism where it inserts certain substrates like uremic toxins into the plasma membrane rather than translocating them to the cytosol, which may promote membrane damage 1. Genetic variants in SLC22A11 affect transporter function, with rare allelic variants like p.P519L significantly limiting urate transport activity and potentially contributing to hyperuricemia development 2. The transporter is susceptible to inhibition by various natural compounds, including herbal components from Danshen and dietary phenolic acids, which may lead to clinically relevant drug-drug interactions 45. Genome-wide association studies have identified SLC22A11 as one of nine genetic loci influencing serum urate concentrations, highlighting its importance in urate metabolism disorders 3.