Cellular mechanisms of regulation of acid-base
cellular mechanisms of maintaining constancy of hydrogen ions concentration in extra-cellular fluid:
•If pH increases hydrogen ions move from cells to extracellular fluid in exchange of potassium ions that enter the cells and alkalosis is usually accompanied by hypokalemia.
•If pH decreases hydrogen ions enter the cells in exchange of potassium ions that leaves the cells and acidosis may cause hyperkalemia. In such a way electro-neutrality law is maintained by cellular regulation. According to it, the sum of the positive and negative charges (cations and anions) is equal. So, hydrogen to potassium exchange between ECF and ICF should be equal.
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