Na,K-ATPase activity and 25(OH)vitamin D3 hydroxylation in rat proximal tubules

The proximal tubule is the target site for parathyroid hormone (PTH), and conversion of 25(OH)vitamin D3 hormones which impinge on calcium (Ca) homeostasis, as well as a major site for sodium (Na) reabsorption. The effect of changes in PTH and vitamin D status on Na,K-ATPase activity, as a measure of Na transport, were studied in the proximal tubules of adult rat kidneys where Na and Ca reabsorption rates are in parallel. Na,K-ATPase activity and 25(OH)D3 metabolism were determined in cortical and juxtamedullary proximal tubule segments from normal, parathyroidectomized (PTX), and vitamin D-deficient (-D) rats. Na,K-ATPase activity was highest in cortical segments. PTX led to a decrease in activity in convoluted segments but increased activity in straight segments. In -D rats, Na,K-ATPase activity decreased in cortical segments but increased in juxtamedullary segments. 25(OH)D3 was metabolized more to 24,25(OH)2D3 than to 1,25(OH)2D3 in all normal segments. Juxtamedullary segments were more sensitive to PTX and -D conditions. These findings suggest that cortical and juxtamedullary nephrons are inherently different in basal Na,K-ATPase activity, in conversion of 25(OH)D3 to active metabolites, and in response to altered PTH and vitamin D3 status.