Erythrocyte Na+-ATPase in obese patients

Na+-K+-ATPase activity, as measured by erythrocytic 86Rb uptake and number Digoxin Binding Sites were evaluated in 34 obese patients and in 39 control subjects. No differences were found in 86Rb uptake and Digoxin Binding Sites between obese and controls. Likewise no differences were found between obese patients on their spontaneous caloric intake and those studied during various hypocaloric regimens. Finally, no relationship between thyroid hormone serum concentrations and ATPase activity was found in the group of obese patients.