Opening lines of communication in the distal nephron
Thomas R. Kleyman, … , Lisa M. Satlin, Kenneth R. Hallows
Thomas R. Kleyman, … , Lisa M. Satlin, Kenneth R. Hallows
Published October 1, 2013; First published September 24, 2013
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2013;123(10):4139-4141. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI71944.
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Commentary

Opening lines of communication in the distal nephron

Abstract

The distal nephron is composed of two main cell types: principal cells and intercalated cells. These cells have distinct morphologic features that allow them to be readily distinguished by light microscopy, as well as distinct suites of proteins that facilitate cell-specific transport properties. In this issue of the JCI, Gueutin and colleagues describe a new mechanism by which β-intercalated cells, via release of ATP and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), influence the activity of transporters in principal cells.

Authors

Thomas R. Kleyman, Lisa M. Satlin, Kenneth R. Hallows

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Figure 1

Evolving understanding of the distal nephron.

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Evolving understanding of the distal nephron. (A) Traditional view, high...
(A) Traditional view, highlighting key transport proteins involved with acid/base, salt, and water balance in kidney collecting duct α (type A) and β (type B) intercalated cells (ICs) and principal cells. (B) Updated view, based on studies performed in mice, rats, or rabbits. Although SLC26A11 is represented as a Cl– channel, there is evidence that it may also function as a Cl–/HCO3– exchanger. AE1, anion exchanger 1; AQP, aquaporin; ClC-Kb, Cl– channel, kidney-specific (type B); NDCBE, Na+-dependent Cl–/HCO3– exchanger; NHE1, Na+/H+ exchanger 1; NKCC1, Na+/K+/2Cl– cotransporter 1; V-ATPase, vacuolar H+-ATPase.