Na+-K+-ATPase, a new class of plasma membrane receptors

The Na+-K+-ATPase (NKA) differs from most other ion transporters, not only in its capacity to maintain a steep electrochemical gradient across the plasma membrane, but also as a receptor for a family of cardiotonic steroids, to which ouabain belongs. Studies from many groups, performed during the last 15 years, have demonstrated that ouabain, a member of the cardiotonic steroid family, can activate a network of signaling molecules, and that NKA will also serve as a signal transducer that can provide a feedback loop between NKA and the mitochondria. This brief review summarizes the current knowledge and controversies with regard to the understanding of NKA signaling.

Source: AJP: Cell Physiology - March 31, 2016 Category: Cytology Authors: Aperia, A., Akkuratov, E. E., Fontana, J. M., Brismar, H. Tags: HUGH DAVSON DISTINGUISHED LECTURESHIP OF THE CELL AND MOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGY SECTION, 2015 Source Type: research