Invited review: lung edema clearance: role of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase

J Appl Physiol (1985). 2002 Nov;93(5):1860-6. doi: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00022.2002.

Abstract

Acute hypoxemic respiratory failure is a consequence of edema accumulation due to elevation of pulmonary capillary pressures and/or increases in permeability of the alveolocapillary barrier. It has been recognized that lung edema clearance is distinct from edema accumulation and is largely effected by active Na(+) transport out of the alveoli rather than reversal of the Starling forces, which control liquid flux from the pulmonary circulation into the alveolus. The alveolar epithelial Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase has an important role in regulating cell integrity and homeostasis. In the last 15 yr, Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase has been localized to the alveolar epithelium and its contribution to lung edema clearance has been appreciated. The importance of the alveolar epithelial Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase function is reflected in the changes in the lung's ability to clear edema when the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase is inhibited or increased. An important focus of the ongoing research is the study of the mechanisms of Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase regulation in the alveolar epithelium during lung injury and how to accelerate lung edema clearance by modulating Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Epithelium / enzymology
  • Humans
  • Pulmonary Alveoli / enzymology
  • Pulmonary Edema / metabolism*
  • Sodium-Potassium-Exchanging ATPase / chemistry
  • Sodium-Potassium-Exchanging ATPase / metabolism*

Substances

  • Sodium-Potassium-Exchanging ATPase