WNK lysine-deficient protein kinase 1 (WNK1)

WNK lysine-deficient protein kinase 1 (WNK1) is a serine/threonine protein kinase critical for the regulation of sodium, potassium, and chloride transporters, most notably in the kidney where it modulates blood pressure through the control of electrolyte homeostasis[1][2][3][6]. Mutations in the WNK1 gene are linked to familial hyperkalemic hypertension and sensory neuropathy, demonstrating its dual importance in cardiovascular and nervous system function[1][2]. WNK1 acts by activating or inhibiting cation-chloride cotransporters, influencing both sodium reabsorption and potassium secretion, as well as neuronal chloride homeostasis[1][2][4]. There is strong interest in WNK1 and related kinases as potential therapeutic targets for hypertension and related diseases, but clinically approved drugs directly targeting WNK1 are not yet available[3].

Other names

With-no-lysine kinase 1WNK1WNK lysine deficient protein kinase 1Protein kinase WNK1

Kinase inhibition (theoretical/experimental, via disruption of downstream signaling regulating cation-chloride cotransporters)