H+/myo-inositol transporter genes, hmit-1.1 and hmit-1.2, have roles in the osmoprotective response in Caenorhabditis elegans

► Characterization of three H+/myo-inositol transporter (HMIT) genes of C. elegans. ► hmit-1.1 and hmit-1.2 are involved in osmotic adaptation. ► Expression of these genes is markedly induced under hyperosmotic conditions. ► Human HMIT expression is also upregulated by hyperosmotic stress. ► The HMIT family has a fundamental role in the osmoprotective response.