Role of the epithelial sodium channel in salt-sensitive hypertension

The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is a heteromeric channel composed of three similar but distinct subunits, alpha, beta and gamma. This channel is an end-effector in the rennin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and resides in the apical plasma membrane of the renal cortical collecting ducts, where reabsorption of Na(+) through ENaC is the final renal adjustment step for Na(+) balance. Because of its regulation and function, the ENaC plays a critical role in modulating the homeostasis of Na(+) and thus chronic blood pressure. The development of most forms of hypertension requires an increase in Na(+) and water retention. The role of ENaC in developing high blood pressure is exemplified in the gain-of-function mutations in ENaC that cause Liddle's syndrome, a severe but rare form of inheritable hypertension. The evidence obtained from studies using animal models and in human patients indicates that improper Na(+) retention by the kidney elevates blood pressure and induces salt-sensitive hypertension.http://gateway.webofknowledge.com/gateway/Gateway.cgi?GWVersion=2&SrcApp=PARTNER_APP&SrcAuth=LinksAMR&KeyUT=WOS:000291304000016&DestLinkType=FullRecord&DestApp=ALL_WOS&UsrCustomerID=8e1609b174ce4e31116a60747a720701Chemistry, MultidisciplinaryPharmacology & PharmacySCI(E)中国科技核心期刊(ISTIC)13REVIEW6,SI789-7973