Acid-Base Balance (Correction)

Acid-base balance refers to the physiological mechanisms that maintain the pH of body fluids within a narrow, optimal range. Correction of acid-base balance involves processes and molecular targets that restore normal pH when disturbances occur due to metabolic or respiratory causes. This is not a single molecule or receptor but rather an integrated system involving multiple organs, transporters, enzymes, and buffer systems including the bicarbonate buffer system, protein and phosphate buffers. Key organs involved are the lungs (controlling CO2 elimination) and kidneys (regulating acid/base reabsorption/excretion). Important molecular players include carbonic anhydrase and transport proteins from the SLC9 (Na+/H+ exchangers) and SLC4 (Na+/bicarbonate cotransporters) families. Disorders requiring correction include metabolic and respiratory acidosis/alkalosis. Therapeutic interventions may target ventilation, administration of buffers, or specific transport proteins.

Neutralization of excess acids/bases, regulation of CO2 exhalation, adjustment of H+ excretion/reabsorption and HCO3- generation/reabsorption.