Why is the Sodium-Potassium Pump Important in Toxicology?
The sodium-potassium pump is integral to cellular function, and its disruption can lead to severe physiological consequences. In toxicological contexts, certain toxins can inhibit or alter the activity of this pump, resulting in cellular dysfunction. For example, cardiac glycosides like digoxin inhibit the sodium-potassium pump, leading to increased intracellular sodium levels. This can trigger a cascade of events that ultimately affects cardiac function.
