Transport properties of intestinal basolateral membranes

Techniques for the isolation and study of basolateral membrane vesicles from the intestinal epithelium have afforded new insights into the mechanisms of intestinal absorption. First, we have confirmed the hypothesis that the second stage of glucose transport involves facilitated diffusion. Second, we have shown that the major system for translocation of neutral amino acids across the basolateral membrane is the classical "L" system. Third, we have established that basolateral membranes contain sodium-dependent transport systems that may be useful in the supply of essential amino acids to the epithelium from the blood. And, finally, our studies of the basolateral (Na + K)-ATPase have clarified the role of this enzyme in sodium absorption.