K+/H+ antiporter functions as a regulator of cytoplasmic pH in a marine bacterium, Vibrio alginolyticus

The marine bacterium, Vibrio alginolyticus, regulates the cytoplasmic pH at about 7.8 over the pH range 6.0-9.0. By the addition of diethanolamine (a membrane-permeable amine) at pH 9.0, the internal pH was alkalized and simultaneously the cellular K+ was released. Following the K+ exit, the internal pH was acidified until 7.8, where the K+ exit leveled off. The K+ exit was mediated by a K+/H+ antiporter that is driven by the outwardly directed K+ gradient and ceases to function at the internal pH of 7.8 and below. The Na+-loaded cells assayed in the absence of KCl generated inside acidic delta pH at alkaline pH due to the function of an Na+/H+ antiporter, but the internal pH was not maintained at a constant value. At acidic pH range, the addition of KCl to the external medium was necessary for the alkalization of cell interior. These results suggested that in cooperation with the K+ uptake system and H+ pumps, the K+/H+ antiporter functions as a regulator of cytoplasmic pH to maintain a constant value of 7.8 over the pH range 6.0-9.0.