Electrolyte and acid-base homeostasis

Electrolyte and acid-base homeostasis refers to the integrated regulation of the body's fluids, electrolytes (such as sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, and bicarbonate), and acid-base (pH) balance. This homeostasis is essential for normal cellular function and is maintained primarily by the kidneys, lungs, and buffer systems. The kidneys adjust excretion and reabsorption of electrolytes and acids/bases, while the lungs regulate removal of carbon dioxide, which contributes to blood pH. Immediate buffering is provided by chemical systems such as bicarbonate and proteins[1][2][3][4][5][6]. Disorders can result from dysfunction of these systems, leading to acid-base or electrolyte imbalances that can severely affect organ systems. Drugs targeting these processes (such as diuretics, mineralocorticoid agonists/antagonists, acidifying/alkalinizing agents) do not have one single molecular target but instead affect various transporters, enzymes (e.g., carbonic anhydrase), and hormone systems[5][6]. Critical notes: - This entry does not describe a molecular target, but a higher-level physiological process. - There is no unique receptor, enzyme, or protein called "Electrolyte and acid-base homeostasis". - Interventions related to this process target many different proteins, including ion channels, transporters (e.g., sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate transporters), carbonic anhydrase enzymes, mineralocorticoid receptors, and more[1][2][3][5]. - For structured drug-target information, look up the specific molecule of interest (e.g., "Sodium channel", "Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase", "Carbonic anhydrase", "Renal tubular transporters").

Other names

Acid-base balanceElectrolyte balanceBody fluid homeostasis