Na+K+ATPase pump

Definition

The Na+K+ATPase pump is an essential membrane protein that actively transports sodium (Na+) out of cells and potassium (K+) into cells using ATP. It helps maintain the electrochemical gradient crucial for cell function and homeostasis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Na+K+ATPase pump exchanges 3 Na+ ions out of the cell for every 2 K+ ions it pumps in.
2. This pump is vital for maintaining cellular osmotic balance and membrane potential.
3. Inhibition of the Na+K+ATPase pump by drugs like digoxin can increase intracellular calcium levels, affecting heart contractility.
4. The activity of this pump consumes a significant portion of a cell's ATP, highlighting its importance.
5. Regulation of the Na+K+ATPase pump is influenced by hormones such as insulin and aldosterone.

Review Questions

• What ions are transported by the Na+K+ATPase pump and in what ratio?
• How does inhibition of the Na+K+ATPase pump affect heart function?
• Which hormones regulate the activity of the Na+K+ATPase pump?

Related terms

Electrochemical Gradient: The difference in charge and chemical concentration across a membrane.

Membrane Potential: The electrical potential difference across a cell membrane.

Digoxin: A cardiac glycoside that inhibits the Na+K+ATPase pump, used to treat heart failure.