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Characterization of ascorbic acid uptake by isolated rat kidney cells.
D M Bowers-Komro1, D B McCormick
1Department of Biochemistry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322.
The Journal of Nutrition
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Kidney cells actively reabsorb ascorbic acid (vitamin C) via a sodium-dependent transport process. This specific mechanism distinguishes vitamin C uptake from other acid anions, highlighting its unique renal handling.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is essential for numerous physiological functions.
- Understanding the renal handling of ascorbic acid is crucial for maintaining systemic vitamin C homeostasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanism of ascorbic acid uptake by isolated kidney cells.
- To determine if ascorbic acid transport shares pathways with other organic anions.
Main Methods:
- Incubation of isolated kidney cells with L[1-14C]ascorbic acid.
- Measurement of uptake kinetics, including time-dependence, saturation, and effects of inhibitors.
- Assessment of transport specificity using related compounds and ion substitutions.
Main Results:
- Ascorbic acid uptake was time-dependent, saturable, and temperature-dependent.
- Transport was significantly reduced by sodium depletion, indicating sodium dependence.
- Uptake was not inhibited by common organic acid anions but was affected by structural analogs of ascorbic acid.
Conclusions:
- Kidney cells reabsorb ascorbic acid through a specific, sodium-dependent active transport system.
- This transport mechanism is distinct from those for other organic acid anions.
- The findings suggest a specialized pathway for vitamin C reabsorption in the kidney.