SCNN1A

SCNN1A is a gene that encodes the alpha subunit of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC). ENaC is a part of the aldosterone-sensitive sodium reabsorption pathway in the kidney, lung, and sweat glands. Mutations in this gene can lead to various health conditions, including Liddle syndrome and pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1 (PHA1).

Function

The SCNN1A gene provides instructions for making a protein that is part of the ENaC. This channel, which is made up of three different subunits (alpha, beta, and gamma), transports sodium ions into cells. The alpha subunit, produced from the SCNN1A gene, plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of sodium in the body. It helps control blood volume and blood pressure, and it also plays a role in the reabsorption of sodium in the kidney.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the SCNN1A gene can cause disorders related to an imbalance of sodium in the body. These include:

• Liddle syndrome: This is a form of inherited high blood pressure. Mutations in the SCNN1A gene that cause Liddle syndrome result in an overactive sodium channel, leading to increased reabsorption of sodium in the kidney. This can cause high blood pressure and low levels of potassium in the blood.

• Pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1 (PHA1): This is a disorder characterized by an inability to maintain the balance of sodium in the body. Mutations in the SCNN1A gene that cause PHA1 result in a sodium channel that is less active or inactive, leading to a decrease in the reabsorption of sodium in the kidney. This can cause low blood pressure and high levels of potassium in the blood.

See also

• Epithelial sodium channel
• Aldosterone
• Liddle syndrome
• Pseudohypoaldosteronism