Effect of Na+/K+ ATPase Inhibition on Ion Homeostasis

Hard Biology Homeostasis And Transport

Homeostasis is a vital process that allows organisms to maintain stable internal environments despite changes in external conditions. One significant mechanism involved in homeostasis is the regulation of ion concentrations within cells and their extracellular environments.

Sodium (Na⁺) and potassium (K⁺) ions play crucial roles in various physiological processes, including nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction. The Na⁺/K⁺ ATPase pump actively transports Na⁺ out of the cell and K⁺ into the cell against their concentration gradients, crucial for maintaining the resting membrane potential.

Consider a scenario where the activity of the Na⁺/K⁺ ATPase is inhibited. What effect would this inhibition have on the cellular homeostasis of Na⁺ and K⁺ ions?

Na+ concentration inside the cell would increase, and K+ concentration would decrease.

Na+ concentration outside the cell would increase, and K+ concentration would increase.

Na+ concentration inside the cell would decrease, and K+ concentration would increase.

Both Na+ and K+ concentrations would reach equilibrium.

Hint

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