Fig. 6: Mechanism of URAT1 transport.

a–c 3D and 2D density maps and models of URAT1 in three distinct conformations: inward open state (a), outward open state (b), and occluded state (c). d A cartoon diagram illustrating the transition from the outward open to the occluded state of URAT1. e, f Structure alignment of the outward open state (yellow) and occluded state (gray) of URAT1, showing the overall structure alignment (e) and the alignment of transmembrane helices TM7/TM8, TM9/TM10, and TM11/TM12 (f). g A cartoon diagram depicting the transition from the occluded to the inward open state of URAT1. h, i Structure alignment from the occluded state (gray) to the inward open state (blue) of URAT1, including the overall structure alignment (h) and the alignment of transmembrane helices TM7/TM8, TM9/TM10, and TM11/TM12 (i). Red arrows indicate the direction of helix displacement, black arrows show the direction of helix rotation. The NTD was used as a reference for structural alignments. j Schematic diagram illustrating the transport of urate by URAT1. k Schematic diagram depicting the inhibition of URAT1 by anti-gout drugs.