Salt and gene expression: evidence for [Na+]i/[K+]i-mediated signaling pathways

Our review focuses on the recent data showing that gene transcription and translation are under the control of signaling pathways triggered by modulation of the intracellular sodium/potassium ratio ([Na+]i/[K+]i). Side-by-side with sensing of osmolality elevation by tonicity enhancer-binding protein (TonEBP, NFAT5), [Na+]i/[K+]i-mediated excitation-transcription coupling may contribute to the transcriptomic changes evoked by high salt consumption. This novel mechanism includes the sensing of heightened Na+ concentration in the plasma, interstitial, and cerebrospinal fluids via augmented Na+ influx in the endothelium, immune system cells, and the subfornical organ, respectively. In these cells, [Na+]i/[K+]i ratio elevation, triggered by augmented Na+ influx, is further potentiated by increased production of endogenous Na+,K+-ATPase inhibitors documented in salt-sensitive hypertension.