The protein encoded by this gene is a transmembrane glycoprotein that transports chloride ions across the cell membrane in exchange for bicarbonate ions. It is localized to the mucosa of the lower intestinal tract, particularly to the apical membrane of columnar epithelium and some goblet cells. The protein is essential for intestinal chloride absorption, and mutations in this gene have been associated with congenital chloride diarrhea.SLC26A3 (Solute Carrier Family 26 Member 3) is a Protein Coding gene. Diseases associated with SLC26A3 include Diarrhea 1, Secretory Chloride, Congenital and Congenital Chloride Diarrhea. Among its related pathways are Transport of glucose and other sugars, bile salts and organic acids, metal ions and amine compounds and Pancreatic secretion. GO annotations related to this gene include transcription factor activity, sequence-specific DNA binding and transcription cofactor activity. An important paralog of this gene is SLC26A4.