ISSN:
0066-4278
Source:
Annual Reviews Electronic Back Volume Collection 1932-2001ff
Topics:
Medicine
,
Biology
Notes:
Numerous Cl channels have been identified in the kidney using physiological approaches and thus are thought to be involved in a range of physiological processes, including vectorial transepithelial Cl transport, cell volume regulation, and vesicular acidification. In addition, expression of genes from several Cl channel gene families has also been observed. However, the molecular characteristics of a number of Cl channels within the kidney are still unknown, and the physiological roles of Cl channels identified by molecular means remain to be determined. A gene knockout approach using mice might shed further light on the characteristics of these various Cl channels. In addition, study of diseases involving Cl channels (channelopathies) might clarify the physiological role of specific Cl channels. To date, more is known about CLC Cl channels than any other Cl channels within the kidney. This review focuses on the physiological roles of CLC Cl channels within the kidney, particularly kidney-specific ClC-K Cl channels, as well as the recently identified maxi anion channel in macula densa, which is involved in tubulo-glomerular feedback.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1146/annurev.physiol.67.032003.153547
