FUNCTION OF CHLORIDE CHANNELS IN THE KIDNEY

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Abstract
▪ Abstract Numerous Cl− channels have been identified in the kidney using physiological approaches and thus are thought to be involved in a range of physiological processes, including vectorial transepithelial Cl− transport, cell volume regulation, and vesicular acidification. In addition, expression of genes from several Cl− channel gene families has also been observed. However, the molecular characteristics of a number of Cl− channels within the kidney are still unknown, and the physiological roles of Cl− channels identified by molecular means remain to be determined. A gene knockout approach using mice might shed further light on the characteristics of these various Cl− channels. In addition, study of diseases involving Cl− channels (channelopathies) might clarify the physiological role of specific Cl− channels. To date, more is known about CLC Cl− channels than any other Cl− channels within the kidney. This review focuses on the physiological roles of CLC Cl− channels within the kidney, particularly kidney-specific ClC-K Cl− channels, as well as the recently identified maxi anion channel in macula densa, which is involved in tubulo-glomerular feedback.