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NKCC2 Cotransporter

Meaning

The NKCC2 Cotransporter is a crucial, electroneoneutral protein located on the apical membrane of the epithelial cells in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle within the kidney. This cotransporter facilitates the simultaneous movement of one sodium ion (Na+), one potassium ion (K+), and two chloride ions (Cl-) from the tubular fluid into the cell cytoplasm. It is the specific molecular target of the powerful class of medications known as loop diuretics and plays an absolutely vital role in the kidney’s ability to concentrate urine and maintain systemic electrolyte balance.