Cellular mechanisms of WNK4-mediated regulation of ion transport proteins in the distal tubule

Abstract

Gene mutations in WNK4 kinase cause a genetic form of hypertension by affecting multiple ion transport pathways through different mechanisms. Cai et al. report that the inhibitory effect of WNK4 on the thiazide-sensitive sodium-chloride cotransporter occurs through the lysosomal degradation pathway in mammalian cells. © 2006 International Society of Nephrology.