Distal convoluted tubule

While the main H+ pump in the PCT is NHE-3,  the main H+ pump in the DCT is an H+ATPase:

 

 

The H+ATPases have a low capacity but generate a steep [H+] gradient. 

 

Luminal H+ acceptors (NH3) are required for H+ pumping to continue.

 

A H+ATPase is located in the luminal membrane.  It helps to reabsorb any remaining filtered HCO3- and also permits an increased renal excretion of NH4+.  In the absence of a luminal H+ acceptor (NH3), however, the free [H+] in the tubular fluid rises quickly (max 0.1 mmol/l), stopping further H+ secretion – minimum urine pH is 4.

 

There is also an H+/K+ATPase, which has a low capacity and seems to be important primarily for the reabsorption of K+ in states of K+ depletion and hypokalaemia.


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