Urinary

Hydrogen ion secretion

Process involving the secretion of hydrogen ions generated by the dissociation of carbonic acid, primarily through sodium ion-linked countertransport.

Carbonic acid dissociation

The process where carbonic acid breaks down into hydrogen ions and bicarbonate ions.

Countertransport

Mechanism where hydrogen ions are secreted in exchange for sodium ions (Na+) in tubular fluid.

Bicarbonate ions

Ions that diffuse into the bloodstream to help prevent changes in plasma pH.

Metabolic acidosis

Condition that can develop after exhaustive muscle activity causing a decrease in blood pH.

Ketoacidosis

Condition that can occur during starvation or diabetes mellitus characterized by an increase in acid levels in the blood.

Control of blood pH

Maintained by H+ removal and bicarbonate ion production at the kidneys.

Aldosterone

Hormone that stimulates hydrogen ion secretion and can lead to alkalosis with prolonged stimulation.

Alkalosis

Abnormally high blood pH that may occur in response to acidosis.

Deamination of amino acids

Process occurring in PCT and DCT that ties up H+ and produces ammonium ions (NH4+) and bicarbonate ions (HCO3–).

Ammonium ions

Ions that are pumped into tubular fluid as a result of deaminating amino acids.

Collecting ducts

Structures that receive tubular fluid from many nephrons and carry it toward the renal sinus.

Aldosterone's role in kidney function

Hormone that controls sodium ion pumps and affects water and solute loss.

ADH (Antidiuretic hormone)

Hormone that controls permeability to water in the collecting system.

ANP (Atrial natriuretic peptide)

Hormone that opposes aldosterone's actions and suppresses secretion of ADH.