[K+ channels and lung epithelial physiology].
Transcripts of more than 30 different K(+) channels have been detected in the respiratory epithelium lining airways and alveoli. These channels belong to the 3 main classes of K(+) channels, i.e. i) voltage-dependent or calcium-activated, 6 transmembrane segments (TM), ii) 2-pores 4-TM and iii) inward-rectified 2-TM channels. The physiological and functional significance of this high molecular diversity of lung epithelial K(+) channels is not well understood. Surprisingly, relatively few studies are focused on K(+) channel function in lung epithelial physiology. Nevertheless, several studies have shown that KvLQT1, KCa and K(ATP) K(+) channels play a crucial role in ion and fluid transport, contributing to the control of airway and alveolar surface liquid composition and volume. K(+) channels are involved in other key functions, such as O(2) sensing or the capacity of the respiratory epithelia to repair after injury. This mini-review aims to discuss potential functions of lung K(+) channels.
Bardou
Olivier
O
Centre de recherche, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Hôtel-Dieu, 3840, St-Urbain, Montréal, Québec, H2W 1T8 Canada.
Trinh
Nguyen Thu Ngan
NT
Brochiero
Emmanuelle
E
D000818:Animals; D001692:Biological Transport; D001826:Body Fluids / Q000378:metabolism; D004847:Epithelial Cells / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D036341:Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / Q000378:metabolism; D017136:Ion Transport / Q000502:physiology; D008168:Lung / Q000166:cytology* / Q000378:metabolism; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000378:metabolism; D011014:Pneumonia / Q000378:metabolism; D011188:Potassium / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D015221:Potassium Channels / Q000145:classification / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D011659:Pulmonary Gas Exchange / Q000502:physiology; D011663:Pulmonary Surfactants / Q000378:metabolism; D012038:Regeneration / Q000502:physiology; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000502:physiology
D036341:Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins; D015221:Potassium Channels; D011663:Pulmonary Surfactants; D011188:Potassium