Clathrin-mediated endocytosis in the mechanism of antidiuretic action of vasopressin

Regulation of water permeability of collecting duct principal cells by neurohypophysial hormone vasopressin underlies the functioning of kidneys as the main effector organs providing the maintenance of the water-electrolyte balance of the organism. Clathrin-mediated endocytosis of water channels and V2 vasopressin receptors is an important step of the antidiuretic mechanism of vasopressin. Internalization of the receptors does not only reduce the number of receptors in plasma membrane, but also activates alternative intracellular signaling pathways. This review outlines the current concept of the mechanism of clathrinmediated endocytosis of V2 receptors and AQP2 water channels, which is necessary for better understanding the molecular mechanism of vasopressin action.