reuptake of norepinephrine has been implicated in both postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome and panic disorder. rs5569 is a variant of SLC6A2. Structure The norepinephrine transporter is composed of 12 transmembrane domains (TMDs). The intracellular portion contains an amino (-) group and carboxyl (-COOH) group. In addition, there is a large extracellular loop located between TMD 3 and 4. The protein is composed of 617 amino acids. Function NET functions to transport synaptically released norepinephrine back into the presynaptic neuron. As much as 90% of the norepinephrine released will be taken back up in the cell by NET. NET functions by coupling the influx of sodium and chloride (Na+/Cl−) with the transport of norepinephrine. This occurs at a fixed ratio of 1:1:1. Both the NET and the dopamine transporter (DAT) can transport norepinephrine and dopamine. The reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine is essential in regulating the concentration of monoamine neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft. The transporter also helps maintain homeostatic balances of the presynaptic neuron. Norepinephrine (NE) is released from noradrenergic neurons that innervate both the CNS and PNS. NE, also known as noradrenaline (NA), has an important role in controlling mood, arousal, memory, learning, and pain perception. NE is a part of the sympathetic nervous system. Dysregulation of the removal of norepinephrine by NET is associated with many neuropsychiatric diseases, discussed below. In addition, many antidepressants and recreational drugs compete for the binding of NET with NE. Transport mechanisms The transport of norepinephrine back into presynaptic cell is made possible by the cotransport with Na+ and Cl−. The sequential binding of the ions results in the eventual reuptake of norepinephrine. The ion gradients of Na+ and Cl− make this reuptake energetically favorable. The gradient is generated by the Na+/K+-ATPase which transports three sodium ions out and two potassium ions into the cell. NETs have conductances similar to those of ligand-gated ion channels. The expression of NET results in a leak-channel activity. Location in the nervous system NETs are restricted to noradrenergic neurons and are not present on neurons that release dopamine or epinephrine. The transporters can be found along the cell body, axons, and dendrites of the neuron. NETs are located away from the synapse, where norepinephrine is released. They are found closer to the plasma membrane of the cell. This requires norepinephrine to diffuse from the site it is released to the transporter for reuptake. Norepinephrine transporters are confined