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Updated: Jun 27, 2026
08:55
Nasal Potential Difference to Quantify Trans-epithelial Ion Transport in Mice
Published on: July 4, 2018
Functional Differences in Electrolyte Transport Between the Mouse Proximal and Distal Trachea.
Tábata Apablaza1,2, Sandra Villanueva1,3, Araceli Olave-Ruiz1,4
1Centro de Estudios Científicos (CECs), Valdivia, Chile.
Acta Physiologica (Oxford, England)
|June 26, 2026
Summary
The mouse trachea has distinct proximal and distal regions with specialized functions in fluid transport. The distal trachea, unlike the proximal, responds to inflammation by altering ion transport.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Molecular Biology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- The mammalian tracheal epithelium exhibits regional specialization along the proximal-distal axis.
- Variations in ion channel and transporter function for fluid absorption/secretion between proximal and distal mouse trachea remain understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize and compare basal and stimulated fluid absorption and secretion in proximal and distal mouse trachea.
- To investigate the role of the NKCC1 co-transporter and its co-expression with ASCL3.
- To assess the impact of interleukin (IL) instillation on tracheal electrophysiological properties.
Main Methods:
- Ussing chamber technique with a custom tissue slider for precise mounting and recording.
- Utilized Slc12a2-/- mice to study the Na-K-2Cl cotransporter 1 (NKCC1).
- Employed a genetically modified mouse model for immunofluorescence to assess NKCC1 and ASCL3 co-expression.
- Administered interleukins (ILs) to evaluate changes in fluid transport and mucus characteristics.
Main Results:
- Proximal trachea showed higher anion secretion (cAMP- and succinate-induced) but no sodium absorption.
- Distal trachea exhibited greater NBCe1-dependent bicarbonate and TMEM16A-dependent chloride secretion.
- NKCC1+ cells, including those co-expressing ASCL3, were identified in submucosal glands and distal tracheal patches.
- Interleukin treatment exclusively altered the electrophysiological properties of the distal trachea.
Conclusions:
- The mouse trachea demonstrates differential regional organization of fluid transport functions.
- Functional distribution of ion channels, transporters, and receptors underlies proximal-distal specialization.
- The distal trachea exhibits plasticity in response to inflammatory stimuli (ILs), while the proximal trachea remains unaffected.
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