Dual function of the choroid plexus: Cerebrospinal fluid production and control of brain ion homeostasis

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The choroid plexus is a small monolayered epithelium located in the brain ventricles and serves to secrete the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that envelops the brain and fills the central ventricles. The CSF secretion is sustained with a concerted effort of a range of membrane transporters located in a polarized fashion in this tissue. Prominent amongst these are the Na+/K+-ATPase, the Na+,K+,2Cl cotransporter (NKCC1), and several HCO3 transporters, which together support the net transepithelial transport of the major electrolytes, Na+ and Cl, and thus drive the CSF secretion. The choroid plexus, in addition, serves an important role in keeping the CSF K+ concentration at a level compatible with normal brain function. The choroid plexus Na+/K+-ATPase represents a key factor in the barrier-mediated control of the CSF K+ homeostasis, as it increases its K+ uptake activity when faced with elevated extracellular K+ ([K+]o). In certain developmental or pathological conditions, the NKCC1 may revert its net transport direction to contribute to CSF K+ homeostasis. The choroid plexus ion transport machinery thus serves dual, yet interconnected, functions with its contribution to electrolyte and fluid secretion in combination with its control of brain K+ levels.

Original languageEnglish
Article number102797
JournalCell Calcium
Volume116
Number of pages9
ISSN0143-4160
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2023

Bibliographical note

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© 2023 The Author(s)

    Research areas

  • Cerebrospinal fluid, Choroid plexus, Ionic gradients, K homeostasis, Membrane transport, Na/K-ATPase

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