The function of SLC11A2 (solute carrier family 11 member 2, ENSG00000110911) is as follows. Proton-coupled metal ion symporter operating with a proton to metal ion stoichiometry of 1:1 (PubMed:17109629, PubMed:17293870, PubMed:22736759, PubMed:25326704, PubMed:25491917). Selectively transports various divalent metal cations, in decreasing affinity: Cd(2+) > Fe(2+) > Co(2+), Mn(2+) >> Zn(2+), Ni(2+), VO(2+) (PubMed:17109629, PubMed:17293870, PubMed:22736759, PubMed:25326704, PubMed:25491917). Essential for maintenance of iron homeostasis by modulating intestinal absorption of dietary Fe(2+) and TF-associated endosomal Fe(2+) transport in erythroid precursors and other cells (By similarity). Enables Fe(2+) and Mn(2+) ion entry into mitochondria, and is thus expected to promote mitochondrial heme synthesis, iron-sulfur cluster biogenesis and antioxidant defense (By similarity) (PubMed:24448823). Can mediate uncoupled fluxes of either protons or metal ions. {ECO:0000250|UniProtKB:O54902, ECO:0000250|UniProtKB:P49282, ECO:0000269|PubMed:17109629, ECO:0000269|PubMed:17293870, ECO:0000269|PubMed:22736759, ECO:0000269|PubMed:24448823, ECO:0000269|PubMed:25326704, ECO:0000269|PubMed:25491917}.