The Na-K-ATPase and calcium-signaling microdomains

Physiology (Bethesda). 2008 Aug:23:205-11. doi: 10.1152/physiol.00008.2008.

Abstract

The Na-K-ATPase is an energy-transducing ion pump that converts the free energy of ATP into transmembrane ion gradients. It also serves as a functional receptor for cardiotonic steroids such as ouabain and digoxin. Binding of ouabain to the Na-K-ATPase can activate calcium signaling in a cell-specific manner. The exquisite calcium modulation via the Na-K-ATPase is achieved by the ability of the pump to integrate signals from numerous protein and non-protein molecules, including ion transporters, channels, protein kinases/phosphatases, as well as cellular Na+. This review focuses on the unique properties of the Na-K-ATPase and its role in the formation of different calcium-signaling microdomains.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium Signaling / physiology*
  • Cell Compartmentation / physiology*
  • Epithelial Cells / enzymology*
  • Humans
  • Sodium-Potassium-Exchanging ATPase / metabolism*

Substances

  • Sodium-Potassium-Exchanging ATPase