Dependence of ion fluxes on fluid transport by rat proximal tubule.

The effects of changes in transepithelial water flux (Jv) on sodium, chloride, calcium, and potassium transport by the proximal convoluted tubule were examined by applying a microperfusion technique to surface segments in kidneys of anesthetized rats. Perfusion solutions were prepared with ion concentrations similar to those in fluid normally present in the later parts of the proximal tubule. Osmolality of the perfusate was adjusted with mannitol. With no mannitol in the perfusates, net fluid absorption was observed. Addition of increasing amounts of mannitol first reduced Jv to zero and then reversed net fluid flux. At the maximal rates of fluid absorption, net absorption of Na, Cl, Ca, and K was observed. When Jv was reduced to zero, Na, Cl, and Ca absorption were reduced and K entered the lumen. Na, Cl, and Ca secretion occurred in association with the highest rates of net fluid secretion. The lumen-positive transepithelial potential progressively increased as the net fluid flux was reduced to zero and then reversed. The results demonstrate that changes in net water flux can affect Na, Cl, Ca, and K transport by the proximal convoluted tubule of the rat kidney. These changes in net ion fluxes are not entirely accounted for by changes in bulk-phase transepithelial electrochemical gradients.