SLC26A5 (Solute Carrier Family 26 Member 5, also known as Prestin): SLC26A5, also known as Prestin, is a motor protein located in the outer hair cells of the cochlea. It plays a vital role in sound amplification and hearing sensitivity by acting as a voltage-sensitive motor protein. Changes in SLC26A5 can lead to hearing impairment, making it a significant focus for research into the molecular mechanisms of hearing and potential treatments for hearing loss.