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pH GRADIENTS IN LEPIDOPTERAN MIDGUT

Dow

    The Journal of Experimental Biology
    |November 1, 1992
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    Lepidopteran larvae utilize a proton pump (V-ATPase) for active epithelial transport, generating high gut pH. This process, crucial for alkali metal transport, is linked to goblet cell function and ion exchange mechanisms.

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    Area of Science:

    • Insect physiology
    • Gastrointestinal biology
    • Epithelial transport

    Background:

    • Lepidopteran larvae possess specialized alimentary canals with high epithelial transport rates.
    • Unique goblet cells and extremely high biological pH values are characteristic of their midguts.
    • The midgut's electrogenic potassium (K+) pump is energized by a proton-pumping V-ATPase.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the mechanisms underlying high pH generation in lepidopteran larval midguts.
    • To elucidate the role of V-ATPase, goblet cells, and ion exchangers in epithelial transport.
    • To model the function of goblet cavities in proton transport and pH homeostasis.

    Main Methods:

    • In vitro measurements of pH gradients and acid-base transport in midgut tissues.

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  • Electrode impalements to measure potential differences across goblet cavity membranes.
  • Molecular analysis of V-ATPase subunits and studies using pH-sensitive dyes (Acridine Orange).

    • Main Results:

    • The midgut actively generates pH gradients dependent on metabolic energy, with regional differences correlating to morphology.
    • Goblet cavities do not accumulate protons under physiological conditions, suggesting a neutral or alkaline environment.
    • V-ATPase activity, gut pH gradient, and transepithelial potential difference fluctuate together during larval moults.

    Conclusions:

    • The K+/H+ exchange mechanism likely maintains a neutral or alkaline pH within goblet cavities under normal conditions.
    • The V-ATPase and associated ion transport systems are tightly regulated and essential for larval gut function.
    • Goblet cavities may function to buffer the V-ATPase from the alkaline gut lumen, supporting efficient ion transport.