MOLECULAR ASPECTS OF ATP METABOLISM AND ATP RECEPTORS IN NEPHRON SEGMENTS

The mammalian kidney consumes ATP at high rates for various transporti ng processes. Renal tubular epithelial cells represent oxidative ATP s ynthesis where the individual nephron segments have the preferred subs trates. Measurement of ATP content is useful for assessing the target site and intensity of nephrotic agents. Confocal microscopy has made m ore precise analysis of structural alterations related to ATP depletio n in renal tubular cells. Molecular cloning of P-2 purinoceptors is no w giving a clear explanation of ATP's action in the kidney. ATP metabo lism and P-2 purinoceptors, reviewed in this article, may provide a be tter understanding of renal physiology and pathophysiology at the beds ide.