Inhibitors of the Na+ K+-atpase

Abstract

1. The major ionmotive ATPase, in animal cells, is the Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase or sodium pump.

2. This membrane bound enzyme is responsible for the translocation of Na⁺ ions and K⁺ ions across the plasma membrane, an active transport mechanism that requires the expenditure of the metabolic energy stored within the ATP molecule.

3. This ubiquitous enzyme controls directly or indirectly many essential cellular functions, such as, cell volume, free calcium concentration and membrane potential.

4. It is, therefore, apparent that alterations in its regulation may play key roles in pathological processes.