Sex-specific effects of sex steroids on alveolar epithelial Na+ transport

In conclusion, female sex steroids stimulate Na+ transport especially in females and prevent the inhibitory effect of DHT in males. The ineffectiveness of testosterone suggests that Na+ transport is largely unaffected by androgens. Thus, the higher responsiveness of female cells to female sex steroids explains the higher Na+ transport activity, possibly leading to a functional advantage in females.

Source: AJP: Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology - March 9, 2017 Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Haase, M., Laube, M., Thome, U. H. Tags: RESEARCH ARTICLE Source Type: research