Roles of Cl‑/HCO3‑ anion exchanger 2 in the physiology and pathophysiology of the digestive system (Review).

Abstract

Cl‑/HCO3‑ anion exchangers (AEs), which are members of the solute carrier 4 family, contribute to the exchange of one intracellular HCO3‑ for one extracellular Cl‑. AE2, a vital subtype of the Cl‑/HCO3‑ exchangers, is expressed widely in various cells and tissues in mammals and serves essential roles in the pathophysiological processes of the cardiovascular system and renal tubular reabsorption. Recently, research on the function of AE2 in the digestive system shed new light on its roles in the regulation of cellular and organ physiology. AE2 not only participates in gastric acid secretion, but also mediates bile secretion and digestive cancer development. The aim of the present review was to describe the role of AE2 in the physiology and pathophysiology of the digestive system, with the aim of guiding clinical diagnosis and treatment.