WNK Kinase Signaling in Ion Homeostasis and Human Disease.

WNK kinases, along with their upstream regulators (CUL3/KLHL3) and downstream targets (the SPAK/OSR1 kinases and the cation-Cl(-) cotransporters [CCCs]), comprise a signaling cascade essential for ion homeostasis in the kidney and nervous system. Recent work has furthered our understanding of the WNKs in epithelial transport, cell volume homeostasis, and GABA signaling, and uncovered novel roles for this pathway in immune cell function and cell proliferation.