SLC26A5 (Solute Carrier Family 26 Member 5, also known as Prestin): SLC26A5, also known as Prestin, is a motor protein found in the outer hair cells of the cochlea. It plays a crucial role in sound amplification and hearing sensitivity by functioning as a voltage-sensitive motor protein. Alterations in SLC26A5 can impair hearing, making it a significant target for research into the molecular mechanisms of hearing and potential treatments for hearing loss.