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Epithelial Sodium Channel

Meaning

The Epithelial Sodium Channel, often abbreviated as ENaC, is a membrane-bound ion channel primarily located on the apical surface of polarized epithelial cells in the kidney, colon, lung, and sweat glands. Its physiological function is the precise reabsorption of sodium ions from the lumen into the cell, which is a critical determinant of total body sodium and water balance. ENaC activity is a key regulatory point in the maintenance of blood pressure and fluid homeostasis.