Understanding Sodium Chloride Co Transporters

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In summary, the lecturer discussed the concentrations of potassium, sodium, and chloride in neurons and how they are pumped in and out of the cell. He also briefly mentioned two types of ion pumps, Na-K ATPase and co-transporters, the latter of which uses sodium in some cases. For further information on the function of co-transporters, refer to the provided textbook section.
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thrillhouse86
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Hey All,

In my cellular & tissue biology class our lecturer was talking about neurons. Basically he was explaining that the concentrations are as follows:
Pottasium: higher inside the cell then outside.
Sodium: higher outside the cell then inside.
Chloride: higher outside the cell then inside.

Naturally there is a drive for potassium to be pumped out and for sodium & chloride to be pumped in.

He was then explaining that there are ion pumps which move against the concentration gradient. the first is Na-K ATPase - which I have a reasonable understanding of: it requires a free phosphate ion from ATP, and pumps potassium into the cell and sodium out in a ratio of 3:2.

The second was the cotransporter which he glossed over. I know that this cotransporter takes chloride out and puts potassium in. But can someone explain to me how this cotransporter works, and whether sodium is involved ?

Thanks,
Thrillhouse
 
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There are many different types of co-transporters, some of which use sodium, and some of which don't. Here's a section of a textbook that discuss co-transporters:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK21687/
 

1. What are sodium chloride co transporters?

Sodium chloride co transporters are proteins found in cell membranes that facilitate the movement of both sodium and chloride ions across the membrane at the same time. They play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of these ions within the cell and are involved in various physiological processes such as nerve signaling and fluid balance in the body.

2. How do sodium chloride co transporters work?

Sodium chloride co transporters use energy from ATP (adenosine triphosphate) to transport sodium and chloride ions against their concentration gradient. This process is known as active transport and requires the presence of specific transport proteins in the cell membrane.

3. What is the function of sodium chloride co transporters?

The primary function of sodium chloride co transporters is to maintain the balance of sodium and chloride ions within the cell. This is essential for proper cell function and is also important for various physiological processes such as nerve signaling, muscle contraction, and fluid balance in the body.

4. How are sodium chloride co transporters regulated?

Sodium chloride co transporters are regulated by various factors such as hormones, neurotransmitters, and changes in the concentration of specific ions. These regulators can activate or inhibit the activity of the transporters, thereby controlling the movement of sodium and chloride ions across the cell membrane.

5. What happens if sodium chloride co transporters are dysfunctional?

If sodium chloride co transporters are dysfunctional, it can lead to various health issues such as electrolyte imbalances, altered nerve and muscle function, and impaired fluid balance. This can result in conditions like hypertension, heart failure, and certain kidney disorders.

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