Progress in relationship between epithelial sodium channel and related respiratory diseases

Epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is an ion channel widely distributed in various tissues and organs of human. It is composed of 3 homologous subunits and allows the flow of sodium ion across epithelial cells, maintain?ing water-salt balance in the cells. Recent studies show that abnormal expression or dysfunction of ENaC in the respiratory system affects water-salt balance, fluid transportation and cell mobility, and causes abnormal changes of the airway surface liquid level and impaired clearance. ENaC is closely related to the development of respiratory diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This article reviews the progress in ENaC structure, function and roles in related respiratory diseases in order to provide a reference for the treatment of the diseases.