Copper-sodium linkage during intestinal absorption: inhibition by amiloride

The possible association between copper and sodium small intestinal absorption in the rat was investigated in the presence or absence of the electrolyte transport inhibitors amiloride, acetazolamide, and furosemide, at pharmacologic concentrations, using an in situ perfusion procedure. Amiloride (1 mM) produced a significant decrease in copper, net water, and sodium absorption, in solutions with sodium. Copper tissue retention was not altered, but was much higher in the absence of sodium. Acetazolamide and furosemide (1 mM), in separate experiments, had no effect on copper removal from the lumen, but generally reduced sodium and water transport. The presence or absence of sodium in the perfusate influenced rates of copper uptake. These data are compatible with a more effective passage of copper across the enterocyte basolateral membrane in the presence of sodium than in its absence.