Role of ion transfer processes in acid-base regulation with temperature changes in fish.

The contributions of transmembrane and transepithelial ion transfer processes and of nonbicarbonate buffering to the in vivo acid-base regulation have been evaluated. Model calculations were performed utilizing experimental data on transepithelial transfer of ions relevant for the acid-base regulation, the intracellular buffering properties of fish tissues, and the behavior of intracellular and extracellular pH and bicarbonate concentration with changes of temperature. The results of these studies indicate that the changes in the pK values of physiological nonbicarbonate buffers with changes in temperature support the adjustment of pH to lower values with rising temperature; however, transmembrane and transepithelial ion transfer mechanisms determine the acid-base regulation of intracellular and extracellular compartments.