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KCNQ-encoded channels regulate Na+ transport across H441 lung epithelial cells

  • Ion Channels, Receptors and Transporters
  • Published:
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Abstract

H441 cells are a model of absorptive airway epithelia that are characterised by a pronounced apical Na+ flux through amiloride-sensitive Na+ channels. The flux of Na+ is intimately linked to Na+ handling by the cell as well as the membrane potential across the apical membrane. As KCNQ-encoded K+ channels influence chloride secretion in gastrointestinal epithelia, the goal of the present study was to ascertain the expression of KCNQ genes in H441 cells and determine the functional role of the expression products. Message for KCNQ3 and KCNQ5 was detected by RT-polymerase chain reaction and the translated proteins were observed by immunocytochemistry. Ussing experiments showed that the pan-KCNQ channel blocker XE991, but not KCNQ1 selective blockers, reduced the short circuit current and the amiloride-sensitive component. These data show for the first time that potassium channels encoded by KCNQ3 or KCNQ5 are crucial determinants of epithelial Na+ flux.

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Acknowledgments

This work was supported by the BHF (Dr. I. Greenwood) and BBSRC grant no. BB/E013597/1 (Dr. D. Baines). The authors would also like to thank Dr. A. Davis for her help with the Western blots.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Basic Medical Sciences, St. George’s, University of London, London, SW17 0RE, UK

    I. A. Greenwood, S. Y. M. Yeung, S. Hettiarachi, M. Andersson & D. L. Baines

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  1. I. A. Greenwood
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  2. S. Y. M. Yeung
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  3. S. Hettiarachi
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  5. D. L. Baines
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Correspondence to D. L. Baines.

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Greenwood, I.A., Yeung, S.Y.M., Hettiarachi, S. et al. KCNQ-encoded channels regulate Na+ transport across H441 lung epithelial cells. Pflugers Arch - Eur J Physiol 457, 785–794 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00424-008-0557-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00424-008-0557-7

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