Question 1

What is the Meaning of Na+/K+-ATPase?

Accepted Answer

The Na+/K+-ATPase is a vital transmembrane protein that actively transports three sodium ions out of the cell and two potassium ions into the cell, powered by ATP hydrolysis. This primary active transport mechanism is fundamental for establishing and maintaining crucial electrochemical gradients across animal cell plasma membranes, essential for cellular excitability and volume regulation.

Question 2

What is the Context of Na+/K+-ATPase?

Accepted Answer

This ubiquitous enzyme resides within cellular membranes, consuming significant basal metabolic energy. Prominent in excitable cells like neurons and muscles, it is indispensable for action potential propagation and contraction. It also plays a critical role in cellular volume maintenance, fluid balance, and facilitating secondary active transport across epithelia, such as in the kidneys.

Question 3

What is the Significance of Na+/K+-ATPase?

Accepted Answer

Proper Na+/K+-ATPase function holds immense clinical significance; its disruption leads to severe physiological consequences. Imbalances are implicated in hypertension, heart failure, and neurological disorders. Its role provides targets for pharmacological interventions, such as cardiac glycosides, which modulate activity to improve cardiac contractility. Robust operation is foundational for cellular homeostasis and organ system function.

Question 4

What is the Mechanism of Na+/K+-ATPase?

Accepted Answer

The Na+/K+-ATPase operates via conformational changes driven by ATP hydrolysis. Three intracellular sodium ions bind, followed by pump phosphorylation, expelling sodium extracellularly. Two extracellular potassium ions then bind, triggering dephosphorylation and return to original conformation, releasing potassium into the cytoplasm. This cyclical process maintains steep ion concentration gradients.

Question 5

What is the Application of Na+/K+-ATPase?

Accepted Answer

Clinically, the Na+/K+-ATPase is a direct target for medications like digoxin, used in heart failure and atrial fibrillation. Digoxin inhibits the pump, increasing intracellular sodium. This reduces Na+/Ca2+ exchanger efficiency, elevating intracellular calcium and enhancing contractility. Understanding its function is crucial in managing fluid and electrolyte imbalances, impacting patient well-being and treatment.

Question 6

What is the Metric of Na+/K+-ATPase?

Accepted Answer

Direct Na+/K+-ATPase activity measurement is generally not feasible clinically. Its functional integrity is indirectly assessed by monitoring serum electrolyte levels, particularly sodium and potassium. Clinical evaluation of electrolyte imbalance symptoms, such as muscle weakness, arrhythmias, or altered mental status, can indicate disruptions. Diagnostic tests like electrocardiograms or nerve conduction studies reflect downstream physiological consequences.

Question 7

What is the Risk of Na+/K+-ATPase?

Accepted Answer

Improper Na+/K+-ATPase modulation carries significant clinical risks. Excessive inhibition by cardiac glycosides causes digitalis toxicity: severe cardiac arrhythmias, GI disturbances, and neurological symptoms. Severe electrolyte imbalances, like hypokalemia, profoundly impair pump function, exacerbating cardiac excitability and increasing arrhythmia risk. Therapeutic intervention requires careful monitoring and expert medical supervision.

Na+/K+-ATPase

Meaning

Context

Significance

Mechanism

Application

Metric

Risk

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