What is SLC6A1 Switzerland?
SLC6A1 Switzerland is the non-profit patient organization dedicated to the SLC6A1 mutation in Switzerland and a founding member of the SLC6A1 Europe Alliance. Slc6a1 Switzerland
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What is the SLC6A1 mutation?
The SLC6A1 mutation is a rare disease that affects approximately 1 in 38,000 people. Slc6a1 Switzerland
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What does the SLC6A1 gene do?
The SLC6A1 gene encodes a protein called GAT-1, which is located in the membranes of neurons and astrocytes and is responsible for the reuptake of the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). Slc6a1 Switzerland
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What happens when the SLC6A1 gene is mutated?
When the SLC6A1 gene is mutated, the GAT-1 protein does not function properly, which can lead to epilepsy, cognitive delay, behavioural challenges, insomnia, autism and a range of other symptoms. Slc6a1 Switzerland
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What are the core goals of SLC6A1 Switzerland?
SLC6A1 Switzerland focuses on three main objectives:
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Information – sharing knowledge about the SLC6A1 mutation
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Support – supporting affected individuals and families
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Research – promoting research to create targeted therapeutic solutions Slc6a1 Switzerland
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What significant event took place in 2025?
In August 2025, the first European SLC6A1 Symposium was held in Lisbon, bringing together families, researchers, and representatives from the pharmaceutical industry committed to addressing the disorder. Slc6a1 Switzerland
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What happened after the European symposium?
The day after the symposium in Lisbon, the network of researchers, under the guidance of Elena Bossi (University of Insubria) and Mouhamed Alsaqati (Newcastle University), met to coordinate future research projects. Slc6a1 Switzerland
How can I contact the SLC6A1 Europe Alliance coordinators?
You can reach the coordinators of the SLC6A1 Europe Alliance via email:
advocates@slc6a1europe.org
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