What are the Toxicological Implications of Pump Dysfunction?
Disruption of the sodium-potassium pump can have several toxicological consequences:
Cellular Swelling: Inhibition of the pump can lead to an imbalance in ion gradients, causing water to enter the cell and resulting in cellular swelling or edema. Cardiac Effects: As the pump is crucial for cardiac muscle function, its inhibition can lead to arrhythmias and other cardiac dysfunctions, especially in the context of cardiac glycoside poisoning. Neurological Impairment: The pump is essential for maintaining the resting potential of neurons, and its dysfunction can impair nerve impulse transmission, leading to neurological symptoms.
