PURINERGIC REGULATION OF GLOMERULAR MICROVASCULATURE AND TUBULAR FUNCTION

Purinergic molecules: ATP, ADP and adenosine regulate physiological processes through activation of purinoceptors in the plasma membrane. Experimental evidence Supports the view that purinergic molecules affect glomerular and tubular functions. Purinergic molecule-induced changes of tension of mesangial cells and/or podocytes may influence GFR by affecting the glomerular ultrafiltration coefficient. On the other hand, purinoceptors are crucial for electrolyte and fluid homeostasis by modulating activity of sodium-potassium-ATPase, voltage-independent or dependent ion channels and cAMP-dependent water channels.