This gene is a member of the monocarboxylate transporter family. Members in this family transport metabolites, such as lactate, pyruvate, and ketone bodies. The protein encoded by this gene catalyzes the proton-linked transport of monocarboxylates and has the highest affinity for pyruvate. This protein has been reported to be more highly expressed in prostate and colorectal cancer specimens when compared to control specimens. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2012].