The protein encoded by this gene belongs to the family of
P-type cation transport ATPases, and to the subfamily of Na+/K+
-ATPases. Na+/K+ -ATPase is an integral membrane protein
responsible for establishing and maintaining the electrochemical
gradients of Na and K ions across the plasma membrane. These
gradients are essential for osmoregulation, for sodium-coupled
transport of a variety of organic and inorganic molecules, and for
electrical excitability of nerve and muscle. This enzyme is
composed of two subunits, a large catalytic subunit (alpha) and a
smaller glycoprotein subunit (beta). The catalytic subunit of
Na+/K+ -ATPase is encoded by multiple genes. This gene encodes an
alpha 3 subunit.
