Water, urea, sodium, chloride, and potassium transport in the in vitro isolated perfused papillary collecting duct

Metabolic acidosis and hyperkalemia differentially regulate cation HCN3 channel in the rat nephron

The kidney controls body fluids, electrolyte and acid-base balance. Previously, we demonstrated that hyperpolarization-activated and cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) cation channels participate in ammonium excretion in the rat kidney. Since acid-base balance is closely linked to potassium metabolism, in the present work we aim to determine the effect of chronic metabolic acidosis (CMA) and hyperkalemia (HK) on protein abundance and localization of HCN3 in the rat kidney. CMA increased HCN3 protein level only in the outer medulla (2.74 ± 0.31) according to immunoblot analysis. However, immunofluorescence assays showed that HCN3 augmented in cortical proximal tubules (1.45 ± 0.11) and medullary thick ascending limb of Henle's loop (4.48 ± 0.45) from the inner stripe of outer medulla. HCN3 was detected in brush border membranes (BBM) and mitochondria of the proximal tubule by immunogold electron and confocal microscopy in control conditions. Acidosis did not alter HCN3 levels in BBM and mitochondria but augmented them in lysosomes. HCN3 was also immuno-detected in mitoautophagosomes. In the distal nephron, HCN3 was expressed in principal and intercalated cells from cortical to medullary collecting ducts. CMA did not change HCN3 abundance in these nephron segments. In contrast, HK doubled HCN3 level in cortical collecting ducts and favored its basolateral localization in principal cells from the inner medullary collecting ducts. These findings further support HCN channels contribution to renal acid-base and potassium balance.

Generation of primary cells from ADPKD and normal human kidneys

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney (ADPKD) is a common genetic disorder characterized by the presence of numerous fluid-filled cysts that lead to a progressive decline in renal function. Cystic tissues and primary cyst epithelial cells obtained from discarded human ADPKD kidneys provide unique biomaterials for the investigation of cellular mechanisms involved in cyst growth and changes in the microenvironment adjacent to the cysts. ADPKD cells have been used to develop straightforward in vitro cell model assays to study events down-stream of the mutant proteins in carefully controlled experimental conditions, test specific hypotheses, and evaluate the cellular response to potential therapeutic drugs. Normal cadaver kidneys deemed unsuitable for transplantation and "non-involved" portions of nephrectomy specimens removed for the treatment of kidney cancer provide important control tissues and the source of primary normal human kidney (NHK) cells for comparison to ADPKD specimens. This chapter describes the methods used in the collection of cystic and non-cystic tissues from ADPKD and normal kidneys and the generation of primary cell cultures. We also highlight strengths and weaknesses of using immortalized isogenic normal and PKD mutant cell lines.

Urease is an essential component of the acid response network of Staphylococcus aureus and is required for a persistent murine kidney infection

Staphylococcus aureus causes acute and chronic infections resulting in significant morbidity. Urease, an enzyme that generates NH₃ and CO₂ from urea, is key to pH homeostasis in bacterial pathogens under acidic stress and nitrogen limitation. However, the function of urease in S. aureus niche colonization and nitrogen metabolism has not been extensively studied. We discovered that urease is essential for pH homeostasis and viability in urea-rich environments under weak acid stress. The regulation of urease transcription by CcpA, Agr, and CodY was identified in this study, implying a complex network that controls urease expression in response to changes in metabolic flux. In addition, it was determined that the endogenous urea derived from arginine is not a significant contributor to the intracellular nitrogen pool in non-acidic conditions. Furthermore, we found that during a murine chronic renal infection, urease facilitates S. aureus persistence by promoting bacterial fitness in the low-pH, urea-rich kidney. Overall, our study establishes that urease in S. aureus is not only a primary component of the acid response network but also an important factor required for persistent murine renal infections.

Urease has been reported to be crucial to bacteria in environmental adaptation, virulence, and defense against host immunity. Although the function of urease in S. aureus is not clear, recent evidence suggests that urease is important for acid resistance in various niches. Our study deciphered a function of S. aureus urease both in laboratory conditions and during host colonization. Furthermore, we uncovered the major components of the regulatory system that fine-tunes the expression of urease. Collectively, this study established the dual function of urease which serves as a significant part of the S. aureus acid response while also serving as an enzyme required for persistent kidney infections and potential subsequent staphylococcal metastasis.

Copeptin levels and commonly used laboratory parameters in hospitalised patients with severe hypernatraemia - the "Co-MED study"

Background

Hypernatraemia is common in inpatients and is associated with substantial morbidity. Its differential diagnosis is challenging, and delayed treatment may have devastating consequences. The most important hormone for the regulation of water homeostasis is arginine vasopressin, and copeptin, the C-terminal portion of the precursor peptide of arginine vasopressin, might be a reliable new parameter with which to assess the underlying cause of hypernatraemia.

Methods

In this prospective, multicentre, observational study conducted in two tertiary referral centres in Switzerland, 92 patients with severe hyperosmolar hypernatraemia (Na⁺ > 155 mmol/L) were included. After a standardised diagnostic evaluation, the underlying cause of hypernatraemia was identified and copeptin levels were measured.

Results

The most common aetiology of hypernatraemia was dehydration (DH) (n = 65 [71%]), followed by salt overload (SO) (n = 20 [22%]), central diabetes insipidus (CDI) (n = 5 [5%]) and nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) (n = 2 [2%]). Low urine osmolality was indicative for patients with CDI and NDI (P < 0.01). Patients with CDI had lower copeptin levels than patients with DH or SO (both P < 0.01) or those with NDI. Copeptin identified CDI with an AUC of 0.99 (95% CI 0.97–1.00), and a cut-off value ≤ 4.4pmol/L showed a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 99% to predict CDI. Similarly, urea values were lower in CDI than in DH or SO (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively) or NDI. The AUC for diagnosing CDI was 0.98 (95% CI 0.96–1.00), and a cut-off value < 5.05 mmol/L showed high specificity and sensitivity for the diagnosis of CDI (98% and 100%, respectively). Copeptin and urea could not differentiate hypernatraemia induced by DH from that induced by SO (P = 0.66 and P = 0.30, respectively).

Conclusions

Copeptin and urea reliably identify patients with CDI and are therefore helpful tools for therapeutic management in patients with severe hypernatraemia.

Trials registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01456533. Registered on 20 October 2011.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13054-018-1955-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Urea transporter proteins as targets for small-molecule diuretics

Conventional diuretics such as furosemide and thiazides target salt transporters in kidney tubules, but urea transporters (UTs) have emerged as alternative targets. UTs are a family of transmembrane channels expressed in a variety of mammalian tissues, in particular the kidney. UT knockout mice and humans with UT mutations exhibit reduced maximal urinary osmolality, demonstrating that UTs are necessary for the concentration of urine. Small-molecule screening has identified potent and selective inhibitors of UT-A, the UT protein expressed in renal tubule epithelial cells, and UT-B, the UT protein expressed in vasa recta endothelial cells. Data from UT knockout mice and from rodents administered UT inhibitors support the diuretic action of UT inhibition. The kidney-specific expression of UT-A1, together with high selectivity of the small-molecule inhibitors, means that off-target effects of such small-molecule drugs should be minimal. This Review summarizes the structure, expression and function of UTs, and looks at the evidence supporting the validity of UTs as targets for the development of salt-sparing diuretics with a unique mechanism of action. UT-targeted inhibitors may be useful alone or in combination with conventional diuretics for therapy of various oedemas and hyponatraemias, potentially including those refractory to treatment with current diuretics.

Urea transport in the kidney

Urea transport proteins were initially proposed to exist in the kidney in the late 1980s when studies of urea permeability revealed values in excess of those predicted by simple lipid-phase diffusion and paracellular transport. Less than a decade later, the first urea transporter was cloned. Currently, the SLC14A family of urea transporters contains two major subgroups: SLC14A1, the UT-B urea transporter originally isolated from erythrocytes; and SLC14A2, the UT-A group with six distinct isoforms described to date. In the kidney, UT-A1 and UT-A3 are found in the inner medullary collecting duct; UT-A2 is located in the thin descending limb, and UT-B is located primarily in the descending vasa recta; all are glycoproteins. These transporters are crucial to the kidney's ability to concentrate urine. UT-A1 and UT-A3 are acutely regulated by vasopressin. UT-A1 has also been shown to be regulated by hypertonicity, angiotensin II, and oxytocin. Acute regulation of these transporters is through phosphorylation. Both UT-A1 and UT-A3 rapidly accumulate in the plasma membrane in response to stimulation by vasopressin or hypertonicity. Long-term regulation involves altering protein abundance in response to changes in hydration status, low protein diets, adrenal steroids, sustained diuresis, or antidiuresis. Urea transporters have been studied using animal models of disease including diabetes mellitus, lithium intoxication, hypertension, and nephrotoxic drug responses. Exciting new animal models are being developed to study these transporters and search for active urea transporters. Here we introduce urea and describe the current knowledge of the urea transporter proteins, their regulation, and their role in the kidney.

ATP as a mediator of macula densa cell signalling

Within each nephro-vascular unit, the tubule returns to the vicinity of its own glomerulus. At this site, there are specialised tubular cells, the macula densa cells, which sense changes in tubular fluid composition and transmit information to the glomerular arterioles resulting in alterations in glomerular filtration rate and blood flow. Work over the last few years has characterised the mechanisms that lead to the detection of changes in luminal sodium chloride and osmolality by the macula densa cells. These cells are true "sensor cells" since intracellular ion concentrations and membrane potential reflect the level of luminal sodium chloride concentration. An unresolved question has been the nature of the signalling molecule(s) released by the macula densa cells. Currently, there is evidence that macula densa cells produce nitric oxide via neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) through cyclooxygenase 2 (COX 2)-microsomal prostaglandin E synthase (mPGES). However, both of these signalling molecules play a role in modulating or regulating the macula-tubuloglomerular feedback system. Direct macula densa signalling appears to involve the release of ATP across the basolateral membrane through a maxi-anion channel in response to an increase in luminal sodium chloride concentration. ATP that is released by macula densa cells may directly activate P2 receptors on adjacent mesangial cells and afferent arteriolar smooth muscle cells, or the ATP may be converted to adenosine. However, the critical step in signalling would appear to be the regulated release of ATP across the basolateral membrane of macula densa cells.

The physiology of urinary concentration: an update

The renal medulla produces concentrated urine through the generation of an osmotic gradient extending from the cortico-medullary boundary to the inner medullary tip. This gradient is generated in the outer medulla by the countercurrent multiplication of a comparatively small transepithelial difference in osmotic pressure. This small difference, called a single effect, arises from active NaCl reabsorption from thick ascending limbs, which dilutes ascending limb flow relative to flow in vessels and other tubules. In the inner medulla, the gradient may also be generated by the countercurrent multiplication of a single effect, but the single effect has not been definitively identified. There have been important recent advances in our understanding of key components of the urine concentrating mechanism. In particular, the identification and localization of key transport proteins for water, urea, and sodium, the elucidation of the role and regulation of osmoprotective osmolytes, better resolution of the anatomical relationships in the medulla, and improvements in mathematic modeling of the urine concentrating mechanism. Continued experimental investigation of transepithelial transport and its regulation, both in normal animals and in knock-out mice, and incorporation of the resulting information into mathematic simulations, may help to more fully elucidate the inner medullary urine concentrating mechanism.

Aquaporin 2 expression increased by glucagon in normal rat inner medullary collecting ducts

It is well known that Glucagon (Gl) is released after a high protein diet and participates in water excretion by the kidney, principally after a protein meal. To study this effect in in vitro perfused inner medullary collecting ducts (IMCD), the osmotic water permeability (Pf; mum/s) at 37 degrees C and pH 7.4 in normal rat IMCDs (n = 36) perfused with Ringer/HCO(3) was determined. Gl (10(-7) M) in absence of Vasopressin (AVP) enhanced the Pf from 4.38 +/- 1.40 to 11.16 +/- 1.44 microm/s (P < 0.01). Adding 10(-8), 10(-7), and 10(-6) M Gl, the Pf responded in a dose-dependent manner. The protein kinase A inhibitor H8 blocked the Gl effect. The specific Gl inhibitor, des-His(1)-[Glu(9)] glucagon (10(-7) M), blocked the Gl-stimulated Pf but not the AVP-stimulated Pf. There occurred a partial additional effect between Gl and AVP. The cAMP level was enhanced from the control 1.24 +/- 0.39 to 59.70 +/- 15.18 fm/mg prot after Gl 10(-7) M in an IMCD cell suspension. The immunoblotting studies indicated an increase in AQP2 protein abundance of 27% (cont 100.0 +/- 3.9 vs. Gl 127.53; P = 0.0035) in membrane fractions extracted from IMCD tubule suspension, incubated with 10(-6) M Gl. Our data showed that 1) Gl increased water absorption in a dose-dependent manner; 2) the anti-Gl blocked the action of Gl but not the action of AVP; 3) Gl stimulated the cAMP generation; 4) Gl increased the AQP2 water channel protein expression, leading us to conclude that Gl controls water absorption by utilizing a Gl receptor, rather than a AVP receptor, increasing the AQP2 protein expression.

Na+ and K+ transport by the renal connecting tubule

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The connecting tubule is emerging as a nephron segment critical to the regulation of Na+ and K+ excretion and the maintenance of homeostasis for these ions. The segment is difficult to study, however, and much of the available information we have concerning its functions is indirect. Here, we review the major transport mechanisms and transporters found in this segment and outline several unsolved problems in the field.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent electrophysiological and immunohistochemical measurements together with theoretical studies provide a more comprehensive view of ion transport in the connecting tubule. New signaling pathways governing Na+ and K+ transport have also been described.

SUMMARY

Key questions about how Na+ and K+ transport are regulated remain unanswered. Is the connecting tubule the site of final regulation of both Na+ and K+ excretion? If so, how are the transport rates of these two ions independently controlled?

Na channel expression and activity in the medullary collecting duct of rat kidney

The expression and activity of epithelial Na(+) channels (ENaC) in the medullary collecting duct of the rat kidney were examined using a combination of whole cell patch-clamp measurements of amiloride-sensitive currents (I(Na)) in split-open tubules and Western blot analysis of alpha-, beta-, and gamma-ENaC proteins. In the outer medullary collecting duct, amiloride-sensitive currents were undetectable in principal cells from control animals but were robust when rats were treated with aldosterone (I(Na) = 960 +/- 160 pA/cell) or fed a low-Na diet (I(Na) = 440 +/- 120 pA/cell). In both cases, the currents were similar to those measured in principal cells of the cortical collecting duct from the same animals. In the inner medullary collecting duct, currents were much lower, averaging 120 +/- 20 pA/cell in aldosterone-treated rats. Immunoblots showed that all three ENaC subunits were expressed in the cortex, outer medulla, and inner medulla of the rat kidney. When rats were fed a low-Na diet for 1 wk, similar changes in alpha- and gamma-ENaC occurred in all three regions of the kidney; the amounts of full-length as well as putative cleaved alpha-ENaC protein increased, and the fraction of gamma-ENaC protein in the cleaved state increased at the expense of the full-length protein. The appearance of a presumably fully glycosylated form of beta-ENaC in Na-depleted animals was observed mainly in the outer and inner medulla. These findings suggest that the capability of hormone-regulated, channel-mediated Na reabsorption by the nephron extends at least into the outer medullary collecting duct.

Computer analysis of the significance of the effective osmolality for urea across the inner medullary collecting duct in the operation of a single effect for the counter-current multiplication system

BACKGROUND

Although urea and water are transported across separate pathways in the apical membrane of the inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD), the existence of a cellular diffusion barrier as an unstirred layer makes it possible to use coefficients of effective osmotic force (sigma*) as equivalent to reflection coefficients. The difference in effective osmolality between urea and NaCl across the IMCD becomes a driving force for water if the compositions of solutes are different between tubular lumen and interstitium. Since reported values for sigma*(urea) are discrepant, we compared the efficiency of a single effect in the counter-current system between an ascending thin limb (ATL) and the IMCD, with the interposition of capillary networks (CNW), between two models with sigma(urea)* = 0.7 (model 1) and sigma(urea)* = 1.0 (model 2).

METHODS

The time courses (within 3 s) of solute and the water transport profiles among ATL, CNW, and IMCD were simulated with a computer in the absence of flow in each compartment.

RESULTS

In spite of small differences in the profiles of urea and NaCl concentrations between the two models, model 1 displayed a larger volume flux in the IMCD than model 2, resulting in an increase of osmolality in the IMCD and a decrease of osmolality in the ATL. These findings are vital for the operation of the counter-current multiplication system.

CONCLUSIONS

The concept of coefficients for effective osmotic force can be applied to the counter-current model between the IMCD and the ATL with the interposition of CNW. The model of sigma(urea)* = 0.7 is more efficient than that of sigma(urea)* = 1.0.

Phylogenetic, ontogenetic, and pathological aspects of the urine-concentrating mechanism

The urine-concentrating mechanism is one of the most fundamental functions of avian and mammalian kidneys. This particular function of the kidneys developed as a system to accumulate NaCl in birds and as a system to accumulate NaCl and urea in mammals. Based on phylogenetic evidence, the mammalian urine-concentrating mechanism may have evolved as a modification of the renal medulla's NaCl accumulating system that is observed in birds. This qualitative conversion of the urine-concentrating mechanism in the mammalian inner medulla of the kidneys may occur during the neonatal period. Human kidneys have several suboptimal features caused by the neonatal conversion of the urine-concentrating mechanism. The urine-concentrating mechanism is composed of various functional molecules, including water channels, solute transporters, and vasopressin receptors. Abnormalities in water channels aquaporin (AQP)1 and AQP2, as well as in the vasopressin receptor V2R, are known to cause nephrogenic diabetes insipidus. An analysis of the pathological mechanism involved in nephrogenic diabetes insipidus suggests that molecular chaperones may improve the intracellular trafficking of AQP2 and V2R, and, in the near future, such chaperones may become a new clinical tool for treating nephrogenic diabetes insipidus.

Regulation of renal proximal and distal tubule transport: sodium, chloride and organic anions

Renal tubular transport and its regulation are reviewed for Na(+) (and Cl(-)), and for fluid and organic anions (including urate). Filtered Na(+) (and Cl(-)) is reabsorbed along the tubules but only in mammals and birds does most reabsorption occur in the proximal tubules. Reabsorption involves active transport of Na(+) and passive reabsorption of Cl(-). The active Na(+) step always involves Na-K-ATPase at the basolateral membrane, but the entry step at luminal membrane varies among tubule segments and among vertebrate classes (except for Na(+)-2Cl(-)-K(+) cotransporter in diluting segment). Regulation can involve intrinsic, neural and endocrine factors. Proximal tubule fluid reabsorption is dependent on Na(+) reabsorption in all vertebrates studied, except ophidian reptiles. Fluid secretion occurs in glomerular and aglomerular fishes, reptiles and even mammals, but its significance is not always clear. A non-specific transport system for net secretion of organic anions (OAs) exists in the proximal renal tubules of almost all vertebrates. Net transepithelial secretion involves: (1) transport into the cells at the basolateral side against an electrochemical gradient by a tertiary active transport process, in which the final step involves OA/alpha-ketoglutarate exchange and (2) movement out of the cells across the luminal membrane down an electrochemical gradient by unknown carrier-mediated process(es). Regulation may involve protein kinase C and mitogen-activated protein kinase. Urate is net secreted in the proximal tubules of birds and reptiles. This process is urate-specific in reptiles but in birds, it may involve both a urate-specific system and the general OA system.

Mathematical models of renal fluid and electrolyte transport: acknowledging our uncertainty

Mathematical models of renal tubular function, with detail at the cellular level, have been developed for most nephron segments, and these have generally been successful at capturing the overall bookkeeping of solute and water transport. Nevertheless, considerable uncertainty remains about important transport events along the nephron. The examples presented include the role of proximal tubule tight junctions in water transport and in regulation of Na(+) transport, the mechanism by which axial flow in proximal tubule modulates solute reabsorption, the effect of formate on proximal Cl(-) transport, the assessment of potassium transport along collecting duct segments inaccessible to micropuncture, the assignment of pathways for peritubular Cl(-) exit in outer medullary collecting duct, and the interaction of carbonic anhydrase-sensitive and -insensitive pathways for base exit from inner medullary collecting duct. Some of these uncertainties have had intense experimental interest well before they were cast as modeling problems. Indeed, many of the renal tubular models have been developed based on data acquired over two or three decades. Nevertheless, some uncertainties have been delineated as the result of model exploration and represent communications from the modelers back to the experimental community that certain issues should not be considered closed. With respect to model refinement, incorporating more biophysical detail about individual transporters will certainly enhance model reliability, but ultimate confidence in tubular models will still be contingent on experimental development of critical information at the tubular level.

Agmatine inhibits arginine vasopressin-stimulated urea transport in the rat inner medullary collecting duct

BACKGROUND

Agmatine, a putative endogenous ligand for imidazoline receptors, induces numerous biological effects. The agonist clonidine binds to alpha-2 (alpha2) adrenoceptors and imidazoline receptors, and inhibits arginine vasopressin (AVP)-stimulated urea permeability (Pu) in the rat inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD). Dexmedetomidine, a selective alpha2 agonist, does not inhibit AVP-stimulated Pu. This study was conducted to determine if agmatine affects Pu in the rat IMCD and to investigate the possibility of an imidazoline-mediated mechanism.

METHODS

The isolated-perfused tubule technique was used to measure Pu in IMCDs from Wistar rats. AVP at 220 pmol/L or 8-chlorophenylthio cyclic adenosine monophosphate (8CPT cAMP) was used to stimulate Pu. Agmatine and other agents were added to the bath.

RESULTS

Agmatine at 1 micromol/L inhibited AVP-stimulated Pu by 50%. Agmatine-induced inhibition could not be separated completely from inhibition produced by the non-imidazoline, catecholamine epinephrine. Of three antagonists selective for alpha2 adrenoceptors (rauwolscine, yohimbine, and RX821002), only rauwolscine reversed inhibition, whereas each of the three imidazoline-selective antagonists tested (atipamezole, idazoxan, and BU239) produced a significant reversal. Agmatine did not affect basal Pu or inhibit 8CPTcAMP-stimulated Pu.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that agmatine inhibits AVP stimulated Pu by a cAMP-dependent mechanism. Imidazoline receptors are probably not involved. The possibility exists of an unknown agmatine-selective receptor modulating urea transport in the rat IMCD.

Electrolyte and fluid secretion by cultured human inner medullary collecting duct cells

Inner medullary collecting ducts (IMCD) are the final nephron segments through which urine flows. To investigate epithelial ion transport in human IMCD, we established primary cell cultures from initial (hIMCD(i)) and terminal (hIMCD(t)) inner medullary regions of human kidneys. AVP, PGE(2), and forskolin increased cAMP in both hIMCD(i) and hIMCD(t) cells. The effects of AVP and PGE2 were greatest in hIMCD(i); however, forskolin increased cAMP to the same extent in hIMCD(i) and hIMCD(t). Basal short-circuit current (I(SC)) of hIMCD(i) monolayers was 1.4 +/- 0.5 microA/cm2 and was inhibited by benzamil, a Na+ channel blocker. 8-Bromo-cAMP, AVP, PGE(2), and forskolin increased I(SC); the current was reduced by blocking PKA, apical Cl- channels, basolateral NKCC1 (a Na+ - K+ - 2Cl- cotransporter), and basolateral Cl-/HCO(3)(-) exchangers. In fluid transport studies, hIMCD(i) monolayers absorbed fluid in the basal state and forskolin reversed net fluid transport to secretion. In hIMCD(t) monolayers, basal current was not different from zero and cAMP had no effect on I(SC). We conclude that AVP and PGE2 stimulate cAMP-dependent Cl- secretion by hIMCD(i) cells, but not hIMCD(t) cells, in vitro. We suggest that salt secretion at specialized sites along human collecting ducts may be important in the formation of the final urine.

Potassium transport in the mammalian collecting duct

The mammalian collecting duct plays a dominant role in regulating K(+) excretion by the nephron. The collecting duct exhibits axial and intrasegmental cell heterogeneity and is composed of at least two cell types: collecting duct cells (principal cells) and intercalated cells. Under normal circumstances, the collecting duct cell in the cortical collecting duct secretes K(+), whereas under K(+) depletion, the intercalated cell reabsorbs K(+). Assessment of the electrochemical driving forces and of membrane conductances for transcellular and paracellular electrolyte movement, the characterization of several ATPases, patch-clamp investigation, and cloning of the K(+) channel have provided important insights into the role of pumps and channels in those tubule cells that regulate K(+) secretion and reabsorption. This review summarizes K(+) transport properties in the mammalian collecting duct. Special emphasis is given to the mechanisms of how K(+) transport is regulated in the collecting duct.

Role of PGE(2) in alpha(2)-induced inhibition of AVP- and cAMP-stimulated H(2)O, Na(+), and urea transport in rat IMCD

PGE(2) inhibits osmotic water permeability (P(f)) in the rat inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) via cellular events occurring after the stimulation of cAMP, i.e., post-cAMP-dependent events. The alpha(2)-agonists also inhibit P(f) in the rat IMCD via post-cAMP-dependent events. The purpose of this study was to determine whether PGE(2) plays a role in alpha(2)-mediated inhibition of P(f), Na(+), and urea transport in the rat IMCD. Isolated terminal IMCDs from Wistar rats were perfused to measure, in separate experiments, P(f), lumen-to-bath (22)Na(+) transport (J(lb)), and urea permeability (P(u)). Transport was stimulated with 220 pM arginine vasopressin (AVP) or 0.1 mM 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)-cAMP (CPT-cAMP). Indomethacin was used to inhibit endogenous prostaglandin synthesis, and the alpha(2)-agonists clonidine, oxymetazoline, and dexmedetomidine were used to test the role of PGE(2) in the alpha(2)-mediated mechanism that inhibits transport. All agents were added to the bath. Indomethacin at 5 microM significantly elevated CPT-cAMP-stimulated P(f), J(lb), and P(u), and subsequent addition of 100 nM PGE(2) reduced these transport parameters. Indomethacin reversed alpha(2) inhibition of CPT-cAMP-stimulated P(f), J(lb), and P(u), and subsequent addition of PGE(2) reduced transport in each case. Indomethacin partially reversed alpha(2) inhibition of AVP-stimulated P(f), J(lb), and P(u), and PGE(2) reduced transport back to the alpha(2)-inhibited level. These results indicate that PGE(2) is a second messenger involved in the mechanism of transport inhibition mediated by alpha(2)-adrenoceptors via post-cAMP-dependent events in the rat IMCD.

Effects of atrial natriuretic peptide in the gut

The intestinal tract is a target organ for atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), characterized by various biologic activities, immunoreactivity, as well as specific binding sites for ANP. A review of previous studies reveals that ANP is an important regulator of water and nutrient intake, which acts via multiple signaling pathways including activation of guanylyl cyclase to produce its biologic responses. As a regulator, the peptide locally controls hydrosaline balance and acute systemic effects. Therefore, ANP could also act as a local mediator or paracrine effector of intestinal function.

Developmental expression of ROMK mRNA in rabbit cortical collecting duct

The cortical collecting duct (CCD) is a major site of regulation of K+ homeostasis in the fully differentiated mammalian kidney. CCDs isolated from adult rabbits and microperfused in vitro secrete K+ into the tubular fluid at high rates. However, CCDs dissected from newborn animals show no significant net K+ secretion until the 3rd wk of life, at least in part because of a paucity of conducting apical secretory K+ (SK) channels. To determine whether the abundance of genes encoding the SK channel is developmentally regulated, we used reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Northern blot analysis to test for the presence of mRNA encoding rat outer medullary K+ channel (ROMK), considered to be a major subunit of the SK channel, in kidney and single CCDs isolated from maturing rabbits. Using rat ROMK-specific primers, RT-PCR of rabbit kidney yielded an amplification product of expected size and sequence. Northern blot analysis identified a single band at approximately 2.9 kb in kidney at all ages. Densitometric analysis revealed a progressive increase in steady state expression of ROMK message in kidney after birth. RT-PCR of individual CCDs yielded a single band of predicted size for ROMK in all segments isolated from animals > or =3 wk old. In contrast, transcripts were not detected in any CCD samples obtained from 1-wk-old animals and were identified in only 30% of CCD samples isolated from 2-wk-old rabbits. In all of the latter tubular samples, a specific PCR product of correct size for beta-actin mRNA was detected. These results suggest that an increase in steady state expression of ROMK mRNA contributes to the developmental appearance of conducting secretory K+ channels in the CCD.

Regulation of renal urea transporters

Urea is important for the conservation of body water due to its role in the production of concentrated urine in the renal inner medulla. Physiologic data demonstrate that urea is transported by facilitated and by active urea transporter proteins. The facilitated urea transporter (UT-A) in the terminal inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) permits very high rates of transepithelial urea transport and results in the delivery of large amounts of urea into the deepest portions of the inner medulla where it is needed to maintain a high interstitial osmolality for concentrating the urine maximally. Four isoforms of the UT-A urea transporter family have been cloned to date. The facilitated urea transporter (UT-B) in erythrocytes permits these cells to lose urea rapidly as they traverse the ascending vasa recta, thereby preventing loss of urea from the medulla and decreasing urine-concentrating ability by decreasing the efficiency of countercurrent exchange, as occurs in Jk null individuals (who lack Kidd antigen). In addition to these facilitated urea transporters, three sodium-dependent, secondary active urea transport mechanisms have been characterized functionally in IMCD subsegments: (1) active urea reabsorption in the apical membrane of initial IMCD from low-protein fed or hypercalcemic rats; (2) active urea reabsorption in the basolateral membrane of initial IMCD from furosemide-treated rats; and (3) active urea secretion in the apical membrane of terminal IMCD from untreated rats. This review focuses on the physiologic, biophysical, and molecular evidence for facilitated and active urea transporters, and integrative studies of their acute and long-term regulation in rats with reduced urine-concentrating ability.

Rabbit distal convoluted tubule coexpresses NaCl cotransporter and 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase II mRNA

BACKGROUND

Although the renal cortical collecting duct (CCD) is a principal target for aldosterone, recent evidence suggests that salt transport by other nephron segments may also be regulated by aldosterone. Electroneutral and thiazide-sensitive NaCl cotransport by the distal convoluted tubule (DCT) of the rat is increased in animals deprived of dietary NaCl. We tested the hypothesis that the DCT of the rabbit is an aldosterone target tissue.

METHODS

The single-nephron reverse-transcriptase/polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique was used to determine mRNA expression of NaCl cotransporter and 11 beta-HSD 2 in dissected nephron segments. The rabbit NaCl cotransporter was first cloned and rabbit-specific primers selected. A micro-assay was developed to assess 11 beta-HSD 2 enzyme activity in 0.5 mm samples of the same nephron segments.

RESULTS

NaCl cotransporter was expressed in 0 of 6 proximal tubule (PT), 6 of 6 DCT and 3 of 6 CCD samples, while 11 beta-HSD was found in 0 of 7 PT, 7 of 7 DCT and 9 of 9 CCD samples. Corticosterone was converted to 11-dehydrocorticosterone at a high rate and to a similar extent by both the DCT and CCD, but not the PT.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that the DCT is a target tissue for the action of aldosterone. Axial heterogeneity of electroneutral (in DCT) and electrogenic (in CCD) Na transporters along the distal nephron may improve sodium recovery in low salt and volume states.

A mathematical model of the inner medullary collecting duct of the rat: pathways for Na and K transport

A mathematical model of the inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) of the rat has been developed representing Na+, K+, Cl-, HCO3-, CO2, H2CO3, phosphate, ammonia, and urea. Novel model features include: finite rates of hydration of CO2, a kinetic representation of the H-K-ATPase within the luminal cell membrane, cellular osmolytes that are regulated in defense of cell volume, and the repeated coalescing of IMCD tubule segments to yield the ducts of Bellini. Model transport is such that when entering Na+ is 4% of filtered Na+, approximately 75% of this load is reabsorbed. This requirement renders the area-specific transport rate for Na+ comparable to that for proximal tubule. With respect to the luminal membrane, there is experimental evidence for both NaCl cotransport and an Na+ channel in parallel. The experimental constraints that transepithelial potential difference is small and that the fractional apical resistance is greater than 85% mandate that more than 75% of luminal Na+ entry be electrically silent. When Na+ delivery is limited, an NaCl cotransporter can be effective at reducing luminal Na+ concentration to the observed low urinary values. Given the rate of transcellular Na+ reabsorption, there is necessarily a high rate of peritubular K+ recycling; also, given the lower bound on luminal membrane Cl- reabsorption, substantial peritubular Cl- flux must be present. Thus, if realistic limits on cell membrane electrical resistance are observed, then this model predicts a requirement for peritubular electroneutral KCl exit.

Indomethacin and staurosporine reverse alpha 2 inhibition of water transport in rat IMCD

These studies were conducted to determine if the prostaglandin-synthesis inhibitor indomethacin or the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor staurosporine affect the inhibition of osmotic water permeability (Pf) by the alpha-2 (alpha 2) agonist dexmedetomidine in the rat inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD). Terminal IMCDs from Wistar rats were perfused and Pf was increased with either 220 pM arginine vasopressin (AVP) or 0.1 mM 8-chlorophenylthio cyclic adenosine monophosphate (8CPTcAMP). All agents were added to the bathing solution. Dexmedetomidine at 100 nM inhibited both AVP- and 8CPTcAMP-stimulated Pf. When Pf was increased by AVP, indomethacin at 0.1 mM or 5 microM reversed the dexmedetomidine-induced inhibition by 68% and 43%, respectively. When Pf was increased by 8CPTcAMP, indomethacin at 0.1 mM or 5 microM reversed inhibition by 83% and 70%, respectively. Indomethacin increased AVP and 8CPTcAMP-stimulated Pf by 20 to 30% and dexmedetomidine inhibited the AVP+ indomethacin-stimulated Pf. Staurosporine at 10 nM yielded similar results. Results suggest that PKC and prostaglandins are involved in the alpha 2 mediated mechanism, and staurosporine and indomethacin-sensitive cellular mediators modulate basal Pf.

Immunolocalization of V1 vasopressin receptors in the rat kidney using anti-receptor antibodies

By using immunocytochemical techniques we have been able to localize the V1 vasopressin receptor in the rat kidney. Immunoblotting using an antiserum raised against an affinity-purified vasopressin receptor showed a 55,000 daltons protein band that has a molecular mass similar to that of the liver V1 vasopressin receptor, as demonstrated by cross-linking studies. Immunoblotting of the antibody showed a band of 55,000 daltons in A-10 cells, which contains the V1 subtype, whereas it did not stain LLC-PK1 cells, which possess the V2 subtype, showing that the antibody recognizes the V1 vasopressin receptor. The immunostaining of kidney sections with this antiserum showed a strong reaction of the connecting tubules and cortical and medullary collecting ducts. The immunostaining pattern of connecting tubule and collecting duct cells was different, that is, the former showed a staining of both the apical and basal plasma membrane but also in the cytoplasm, whereas the latter showed a strong reaction mainly in the basolateral membrane. Immunostaining of consecutive serial sections with an antiserum raised against tissue kallikrein, an enzyme present exclusively in connecting tubules, and with the anti-receptor serum allowed us to show, for the first time, the presence of the vasopressin receptor in the connecting tubule cells and their absence in intercalated cells, the other cell type present in connecting tubules. These findings support experiments carried in the eighties on the release of renal tissue kallikrein by AVP.

Structure, regulation and physiological roles of urea transporters

Urea is the major constituent of the urine and the principal means for disposal of nitrogen derived from amino acid metabolism. Specialized phloretin-inhibitable urea transporters are expressed in kidney medulla and play a central role in urea excretion and water balance. These transporters allow accumulation of urea in the medulla and enable the kidney to concentrate urine to an osmolality greater than systemic plasma. Recently, expression cloning with Xenopus oocytes has led to the isolation of a novel phloretin-inhibitable urea transporter (UT2) from rabbit, and subsequently from rat kidney. UT2 from both species has the characteristics of the phloretin-sensitive urea transporter previously defined in kidney by in vitro perfused tubule studies. Based on these advances, Ripoche and colleagues cloned a homologous urea transporter (HUT11) from erythrocytes. UT2 and HUT11 predict 43 kDa polypeptides and exhibit 64% amino acid sequence identity. Since regulation of urea transport in the kidney plays an important role in the orchestration of the antidiuretic response, we have studied the regulation of urea transporter in rat kidney at the mRNA level. On Northern blots probed at high stringency, rat UT2 hybridized to two transcripts of 2.9 kb and 4.0 kb, which have spatially distinct distributions within the kidney. Northern analysis and in situ hybridization of kidneys from rats maintained at different physiologic states revealed that the 2.9 and 4.0 kb transcripts are regulated by separate mechanisms. The 4 kb transcript was primarily responsive to changes in the dietary protein content, whereas the 2.9 kb transcript was highly responsive to changes in the hydration state of the animal. We propose that the two UT2 transcripts are regulated by distinct mechanisms to allow optimal fluid balance and urea excretion.

Evidence for a physiological role of angiotensin-(1-7) in the control of hydroelectrolyte balance

In this study we evaluated the possibility that angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] acts as an endogenous osmoregulatory peptide by determining the effect of acute administration of its selective antagonist [D-Ala7]Ang-(1-7) (A-779) on renal function parameters in rats. In addition, we investigated the physiological mechanisms involved in the antidiuretic effect of Ang-(1-7). The antidiuretic effect of Ang-(1-7) (40 pmol/0.05 mL per 100 g BW) in water-loaded rats was completely blocked by A-779 (vehicle-treated, 3.34 +/- 0.43 mL/h; Ang-(1-7), 1.48 +/- 0.23; A-779, 2.72 +/- 0.35; Ang-(1-7) plus A-779, 3.26 +/- 0.49). In contrast, the antidiuretic effect of Ang-(1-7) was not significantly changed by a vasopressin V2 receptor antagonist in a dose that completely blocked the antidiuresis produced by an equipotent dose of vasopressin. In addition, Ang-(1-7) administration did not significantly change vasopressin plasma levels in water-loaded rats. The antidiuretic effect of Ang-(1-7) in water-loaded rats was associated with a reduction of creatinine clearance (0.68 +/- 0.04 versus 1.38 +/- 0.32 mL/min in vehicle-treated rats, P <.05) and an increase in urine osmolality (266.8 +/- 32.7 versus 182.8 +/- 14 mOsm/kg in vehicle-treated rats, P <.05). An effect of Ang-(1-7) in tubular water transport was demonstrated in vitro by a fourfold increase in the hydraulic conductivity of inner medullary collecting ducts in the presence of 1 nmol/L Ang-(1-7). Subcutaneous administration of A-779 (2.3 to 9.2 nmol/100 g) produced a significant increase in urine volume (4.6 nmol/100 g, 0.45 +/- 0.12 mL/h; vehicle-treated rats, 0.16 +/- 0.03 mL/h; P <.05) comparable to that of acute administration of a vasopressin V2 receptor antagonist. The diuretic effect of A-779 was associated with an increase in creatinine clearance and decrease in urine osmolality. In contrast, no significant effects on urine volume were observed after systemic administration of angiotensin subtype 1 or 2 receptor antagonists (DuP 753 and CGP 42112A, respectively). These findings suggest that endogenous Ang-(1-7), acting on specific receptors, participates in the control of hydroelectrolyte balance by influencing especially water excretion.

Renal and extrarenal sites of action of diuretics

This paper provides (a) a survey of the basic tubule transport mechanisms of sodium and potassium ions along the nephron, (b) a comparison of the overall renal effects of two diuretic agents (torasemide and furosemide), as assessed by renal clearance techniques, (c) an analysis of the tubule sites of action of torasemide evaluated by free-flow micropuncture and microperfusion techniques, and (d) a brief evaluation of some extrarenal transport effects of loop diuretics.

Effect of chlorpropamide on water and urea transport in the inner medullary collecting duct

The present in vitro microperfusion study examined whether chlorpropamide (CPM) has a direct effect on hydraulic conductivity (Lp x 10(-6) cm/atm.sec) and 14C-urea permeability (Pu x 10(-5) cm/sec) in the middle and distal inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) obtained from acutely water-loaded Wistar rats and rats homozygous for diabetes insipidus (DI). CPM (10(-4) M) added to the bath fluid increased the Lp in the water-loaded Wistar rats from -0.05 +/- 0.13 to 6.25 +/- 0.74 (p less than 0.01) and in the DI rats from 0.05 +/- 0.01 to 5.95 +/- 0.84 (p less than 0.01), but had no effect when it was added to the perfusate. CPM stimulated Lp in a dose-dependent manner with the threshold effect at 10(-6) M. However, the addition of CPM (10(-4) M) to submaximal concentration of VP in the bath fluid did not increase the Lp. Furthermore, CPM was unable to block the inhibitory action of PGE2 on the vasopressin (VP)-stimulated Lp. On the contrary, PGE2 blocked the CPM-stimulated Lp. CPM (10(-4) M) in the peritubular fluid was able to cause a significant rise of the Pu from 13.5 +/- 0.8 to 17.3 +/- 1.0 reversibly, which represented 16% of maximum stimulated effect produced by 50 microU/ml of VP. Thus, pharmacological doses of CPM added to the peritubular side have a direct effect on terminal IMCD increasing water and urea permeability in the absence of VP, but this drug does not potentiate the VP-stimulated water transport in the IMCD. Our results were unable to confirm the hypothesis that CPM potentiates the VP-antidiuresis by the inhibition of PGE2 action in the rat IMCD.

Countercurrent system

Urinary concentration is achieved by countercurrent multiplication in the inner medulla. The single effect in the outer medulla is active NaCl absorption from the thick ascending limb. While the single effect in the inner medulla is not definitively established, the majority of experimental data favors passive NaCl absorption from the thin ascending limb. Continued experimental studies in inner medullary nephron segments will be needed to elucidate fully the process of urinary concentration.

Vasopressin-enhanced urea transport by rat inner medullary collecting duct cells in culture

The distal inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) is critical in the urinary concentrating process, in part because it is the site of vasopressin (AVP)-regulated permeability to urea. The purpose of these experiments was to develop a cell culture model of the IMCD on permeable structure and to characterize the responsiveness to AVP. Rat IMCD cells were grown to confluence on collagen-coated Millipore filters glued onto plastic rings. To assess the time required to achieve confluence, the transepithelial resistance was measured periodically and was found to be stable after 2 weeks, at a maximal value of 595 +/- 22 omega cm2. In separate monolayers the effect of AVP on inulin and urea permeability was determined. While inulin permeability was unchanged after AVP, urea permeability increased from 6.0 +/- 0.4 to peak values of 16.0 +/- 3.8 (10 nM), 23.1 +/- 3.9 (1 microM) and 28.1 +/- 4.9 (10 microM) x 10(-6) cm s-1 (n = 24). In 10 other monolayers, after the addition of 1 mM 8-Br-cAMP, urea permeability increased from 5.1 +/- 0.3 to 8.1 +/- 1.6 x 10(-6) cm s-1 and, after 8-Br-cAMP + 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, to 12.2 +/- 0.7 x 10(-6) cm s-1. We conclude that rat IMCD cells grown in culture exhibit the characteristics of a 'tight' epithelium. Inulin and urea permeability are not different in the absence of AVP, consistent with high resistance junctional complexes. Furthermore, IMCD cells retain the capacity for AVP-regulated urea permeability, a characteristic feature of this nephron segment in vivo.

Effect of atrial natriuretic factor and cyclic guanosine monophosphate on water and urea transport in the inner medullary collecting duct

We examined the action of high (2 x 10(-8)M) and low (6 x 10(-9)M) concentrations of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) on water and urea transport in the rat inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) using the in vitro microperfusion technique. We measured the hydraulic conductivity (Lp x 10(-6) cm/atm per second) and both lumen-to-bath (Pu(lb] and bath-to-lumen (Pu(bl)) 14C-urea permeabilities (Pu x 10(-5) cm/s) in the absence and in the presence of vasopressin (VP). High concentrations of ANF were able to inhibit the maximum activity of (50 microU/ml) VP-stimulated Lp but physiological concentration of ANF inhibit only submaximum activity (10 microU/ml) of VP-stimulated Lp. The hydrosomotic effect of dibutyryl-cyclic 3.5 adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) (10(-4)M) was unchanged by high concentrations of ANF (2 x 10(-8)M). Also we found that high (10(-4)M) and low (10(-6)M) concentrations of exogenous cyclic 3,5-guanosine monophosphate (GMP) while unable to change the Lp in the absence of VP, decreased the maximum activity of VP-stimulated Lp significantly. We also found that ANF inhibits partially and in a reversible manner the VP-stimulated Pu(lg) but not the VP-stimulated Pu(bl). These results demonstrated that plasma concentrations of ANF observed during volume expansion (10(-10)M) are able to inhibit submaximum activity of VP-stimulated (10 microU/ml) Lp in the rat IMCD, this effect seems to occur before cAMP formation and it appears to be mediated by cGMP. ANF (6 x 10(-9)M) also reduced the VP-stimulated urea outflux.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Effect of furosemide on water and urea transport in cortical and inner medullary collecting duct

The present in vitro microperfusion study examined whether furosemide has an effect on hydraulic conductivity (Lp X 10(-6) cm/sec.atm) and 14C-urea permeability (Pu X 10(-5) cm/sec) in inner medullary collecting ducts (IMCD) and cortical collecting tubules (CCT) isolated from rat and rabbit kidneys. Furosemide added to the bath fluid decreased arginine-vasopressin (AVP)-stimulated Lp of rat IMCD in a dose-dependent manner, with the threshold effect at 10(-6) M. Furosemide (10(-4) M) reduced Lp from 20.5 +/- 2.3 to 12.1 +/- 1.2 (P less than 0.01) reversibility, but had no effect when added to the perfusate. In addition, furosemide reduced dibutyryl cyclic AMP-stimulated Lp from 20.3 +/- 1.1 to 11.2 +/- 1.6 (P less than 0.01). This effect of furosemide was also observed with indomethacin, a PGE2 synthesis inhibitor. The addition of indomethacin (10(-4) M) to AVP (50 microU/ml) increased Lp from 24.7 +/- 2.3 to 29.7 +/- 2.8 (P less than 0.001), which was reduced to 20.3 +/- 2.6 (P less than 0.001) when furosemide was added to indomethacin in the bath. The inhibitory effect of furosemide on AVP-stimulated Lp was also observed in rabbit IMCD (Lp decreased from 12.8 +/- 0.8 to 5.15 +/- 1.46, P less than 0.02), but it was not observed in the CCT isolated from rabbit kidneys (7.96 +/- 1.87 with AVP vs. 7.94 +/- 1.41 with AVP + furosemide). Furthermore, in rat IMCD the stimulatory effect of AVP on Pu from 7.7 +/- 0.4 to 26.8 +/- 1.3 was reduced by furosemide to 19.7 +/- 1.2 (P less than 0.01).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Body composition, normal electrolyte concentrations, and the maintenance of normal volume, tonicity, and acid-base metabolism

Because the internal environment of the body is largely a fluid medium, the preservation of the volume and composition of the body fluids is absolutely vital to circulatory status and the extraordinarily complicated functions of the human body. The fluid compartments do not exist as fixed spaces with identical compositions but rather are in constant interchange with each other and have strikingly different compositions. Methods of movement of solutes and water include diffusion along electrochemical gradients, by hydrostatic pressure, osmotic forces, bulk flow, primary and secondary active transport, capillary blood flow, and oncotic pressure. Complex feedback control mechanisms exist to ensure homeostasis or equilibrium and include participation by the kidneys, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, the circulatory system, the endocrine system, and the CNS. The maintenance of extracellular volume is centered around the control of balance of the sodium salts. Multiple afferent (or sensing) and efferent (or effector) mechanisms exist to accomplish this homeostasis. The most important determinants of the osmolality or tonicity of the body fluids is the excretion or retention of water by the kidney, thirst mechanisms, and the intake of water. The serum sodium concentration is the laboratory test most often used clinically to assess tonicity. The pH of the body fluids and the major acid-base buffer systems are also carefully regulated. The lungs are responsible for the elimination of the carbon dioxide produced by cellular metabolism, and the kidneys excrete hydrogen ions and regulate the concentration of bicarbonate in the body fluids. Urinary net acid excretion, the hydrogen ions excreted as titratable acid and ammonium ions minus any bicarbonate, equals the acid added to the ECF from the diet and metabolism plus any fecal losses of alkali.

Electrophysiological study of inner medullary collecting duct of hamsters

The electrophysiological properties of the hamster mid-inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD2) cells were examined in isolated and perfused preparations by intracellular impalement with conventional 1 mol/l KCl microelectrodes and cable analysis. The transmural voltage (VT) was not different from 0 mV, while the basolateral transmembrane voltage (VB) was -81.7 +/- 0.91 mV (n = 221). The transmural resistance (RT) was 109 omega cm2, indicating that the IMCD2 is composed of tight epithelia. The fractional apical membrane resistance (fRA) was 0.98 +/- 0.003 (n = 10). Abrupt changes in the luminal concentration of Na+, K+ or Cl- did not alter the apical membrane voltage (VA) or VT, and neither 2 mmol/l Ba2+ nor 10 mumol/l amiloride in the lumen affected VA and VT. Moreover, pretreatment of hamsters with deoxycorticosterone acetate (5 mg/kg, s.c.) for 10-14 days caused only a very small change in VT in the negative direction. Amiloride in the lumen increased RT and increased the voltage divider ratio very slightly. However, an abrupt increase in K+ concentration in the bath from 5 mmol/l to 50 mmol/l or addition of 2 mmol/l Ba2+ to the bath depolarized the basolateral membrane by 39 mV and 29 mV, respectively. In the presence of 2 mmol/l Ba2+ in the bath, a reduction of HCO3- concentration from 25 mmol/l to 2.5 mmol/l depolarized VB by 20.4 mV. No Cl- conductance was demonstrated in the basolateral membrane.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Rapid hypertonic cell volume regulation in the perfused inner medullary collecting duct

Differential interference contrast microscopic images were used to assess the cell volume regulatory increase (VRI) response of rat IMCD segments isolated from the mid-inner medullary region of pathogen-free Sprague-Dawley rats and perfused in vitro at 37 degrees C. In the absence of ADH. IMCD cells behaved in an osmometric fashion over the range of extracellular osmolalities 290 to 386 mOsm/kg H2O and had an osmotic space equal to 54.2% of total geometric volume. After initial shrinkage in hypertonic perfusing and bathing solutions (340 mOsm/kg H2O using sucrose), cell volume increased rapidly to the isotonic value only in tubules preincubated in ADH (100 microU/ml). The rates of VIR were: (-ADH) 0.0142 +/- 0.0046 nl.min-1.cm-1 or 0.30 +/- 0.10%/min and (+ADH) 0.7225 +/- 0.1278 nl.min-1.cm-1 or 15.42 +/- 2.31%/min (N = 4; P less than 0.01). An overshoot in cell volume was observed on return to isotonic media only in the ADH exposed tubules showing a hypertonic VRI response, indicating that IMCD cells accumulated solute during hypertonic VRI. In the absence of ADH, one mM dibutyryl cyclic AMP mimicked the effect of hormone on hypertonic VRI. This ADH-dependent VRI process required Na+ and (CO2 + HCO3-) in external media and was reduced or abolished by 0.1 mM amiloride, 0.1 mM 4,4'-diisothiocyanatostilbene-2,2-'-disulfonic acid (DIDS) in peritubular solutions. These data suggest that ADH-dependent, rapid hypertonic cell volume regulation in rat inner medullary collecting duct depends on NA+ uptake, which may be mediated by parallel Na+-H+ and an HCO3(-)-dependent. DIDS-sensitive pathway (such as, Cl+-HCO3- exchanger) in basolateral cell membrane. In addition, a luminal amiloride-sensitive pathway (most likely the cation-selective channel) may contribute to cell volume regulation in the rat IMCD.

Atrial natriuretic factor inhibits vasopressin-stimulated osmotic water permeability in rat inner medullary collecting duct

The inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) has been proposed to be a site of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) action. We carried out experiments in isolated perfused terminal IMCDs to determine whether ANF (rat ANF 1-28) affects either osmotic water permeability (Pf) or urea permeability. In the presence of a submaximally stimulating concentration of vasopressin (10(-11) M), ANF (100 nM) significantly reduced Pf by an average of 46%. Lower concentrations of ANF also significantly inhibited vasopressin-stimulated Pf by the following percentages: 0.01 nM ANF, 18%; 0.1 nM, 46%; 1 nM, 48%. Addition of exogenous cyclic GMP (0.1 mM) mimicked the effect of ANF, decreasing Pf by an average of 48%. ANF also inhibited cyclic AMP-stimulated Pf by an average of 31%. ANF did not affect urea permeability, nor did it alter vasopressin-stimulated cyclic AMP accumulation. We conclude that ANF at physiological concentrations causes a large inhibition of vasopressin-stimulated Pf in the rat terminal IMCD, and that cyclic GMP is the second messenger mediating the effect. ANF appears to act at a site distal to cyclic AMP generation in the chain of events linking vasopressin receptor binding to an increase in osmotic water permeability.