上皮钠通道在相关呼吸系统疾病中的研究进展

Progress in relationship between epithelial sodium channel and related respiratory diseases

上皮钠通道(epithelial sodium channel,ENaC)是一种非电压依赖性的离子通道,是上皮细胞主要的Na+转运通道之一,属于ENaC/退化蛋白(degenerin)超家族[1-2]。ENaC对阿米洛利敏感,主要分布于人体肺部[3]、肾脏[4]、结肠、生殖道[5]及中枢神经系统[6]等多种组织的上皮细胞,能够控制Na+进入上皮细胞,对稳定细胞内Na+浓度及维持细胞渗透平衡具有重要作用[7]。

Epithelial sodium channel(ENaC) is an ion channel widely distributed in various tissues and organs of human. It is composed of 3 homologous subunits and allows the flow of sodium ion across epithelial cells,maintaining water-salt balance in the cells. Recent studies show that abnormal expression or dysfunction of ENaC in the respiratory system affects water-salt balance,fluid transportation and cell mobility,and causes abnormal changes of the airwaysurface liquid level and impaired clearance. ENaC is closely related to the development of respiratory diseases,such ascystic fibrosis,asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This article reviews the progress in ENaC structure,function and roles in related respiratory diseases in order to provide a reference for the treatment of the diseases.