Novel Concepts in Nephron Sodium Transport: A Physiological and Clinical Perspective

The kidneys play a critical role in maintaining total body sodium (Na+) balance across a wide range of dietary intake, accomplished by a concerted effort involving multiple Na+ transporters along the nephron. Furthermore, nephron Na+ reabsorption and urinary Na+ excretion are closely linked to renal blood flow and glomerular filtration such that perturbations in either of them can modify Na+ transport along the nephron, ultimately resulting in hypertension and other Na+-retentive states. In this article, we provide a brief physiological overview of nephron Na+ transport and illustrate clinical syndromes and therapeutic agents that affect Na+ transporter function. We highlight recent advances in kidney Na+ transport, particularly the role of immune cells, lymphatics, and interstitial Na+ in regulating Na+ reabsorption, the emergence of potassium (K+) as a regulator of Na+ transport, and the evolution of the nephron to modulate Na+ transport.