Summary
Application of an hypo-osmotic shock to isolated axons ofCarcinus maenas induces a decrease in the intracellular content of K+, Na+ and Cl−. The changes in Na+ and Cl− levels are only transitory while the K+ level reaches new steady-state value much lower than the control. The modification of K+ concentration cannot be ascribed only to a simple dilution process and it is proposed that the regulation of intracellular K+ plays an important role in limiting the swelling which occurs in this tissue.
Hypo-osmotic conditions also induce an increase in Na+ permeability.
The results are discussed in relation to changes in ion transport and interactions with intracellular organic compounds that could arise during the process of volume regulation.
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Kevers, C., Péqueux, A. & Gilles, R. Effects of an hypo-osmotic shock on Na+, K+ and Cl− levels in isolated axons ofCarcinus maenas . J Comp Physiol B 129, 365–371 (1979). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00686995
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00686995