Effects of Na+/K+ ATPase Inhibition

Very Hard Biology Homeostasis And Transport

The process of maintaining homeostasis in biological systems is crucial for the survival of organisms. One important aspect of homeostasis involves the regulation of sodium ions (Na⁺) and potassium ions (K⁺) across cell membranes through various transport mechanisms. In human cells, the Na⁺/K⁺ ATPase pump, which actively transports Na⁺ out of and K⁺ into the cell, plays a vital role in establishing a membrane potential and regulating cellular volume. Defects in this transport mechanism can lead to various physiological disorders.

Consider the effect of a pharmacological agent that inhibits the Na⁺/K⁺ ATPase pump. Which of the following consequences would most likely occur as a result of this inhibition?

Chloride ions (Cl-) would inversely increase inside the cell to maintain electroneutrality.

The cell would experience depolarization due to decreased extracellular Na+ concentration.

Active transport of glucose into the cell would be enhanced due to increased intracellular Na+.

The intracellular concentration of K+ would rise, leading to potential cellular dysfunction.

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