NHA2 is a recently discovered mammalian sodium/hydrogen exchanger that has more homology to prokaryotic NHEs than to the currently known mammalian NHEs. NHA2 is highly expressed in osteoclasts, pancreas, neurons and distal tubules of the kidney.

Clinical evidence links NHA2 to the development of diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension. Currently, there are no specific inhibitors of NHA2 available.

We plan to study the biological function of NHA2 in mammals by use of transgenic, NHA2-deficient mice. Furthermore, we aim to get insights into NHA2 structure, which will be the basis for the development of specific NHA2 inhibitors.