Proximal cell K+ activity: technical problems and dependence on plasma K+ concentration

K+-selective liquid ion-exchanger double-barreled microelectrodes were used to measure intracellular K+ activity (alpha Ki) of proximal tubular cells in Necturus kidney. SEveral methodological problems inherent in the construction and in vivo application of such microelectrodes were considered, in particular the identification of leaky impalements and the correct assessment of alpha Ki during reversible perfusion of peritubular capillaries from control to a test solution. Peritubular potassium concentration (CpK) could be altered by means of double-barreled micropipettes containing a physiologic and a high or low K solution. The control alpha Ki value averaged 57.9 +/- 8.5 mM (mean +/- SD, n = 38) and the basolateral membrane potential was -70.4 +/- 5.8 mV. Thus, the K+ equilibrium potential across the basolateral membrane (EK) was -81.1 +/- 3.4 mV. Increasing CpK from 3.0 to 30.0 mM raised alpha Ki by 7.0 +/- 1.5 mM, and lowering CpK to 0.3 mM decreased alpha Ki by 9.2 +/- 2.9 mM. Conclusions: 1) the steady-state K+ distribution across the basolateral membrane indicates that potassium is actively pumped into the cell. 2) The relative stability of alpha Ki in the face of large CpK variations underscores the effectiveness of cell homeostasis; passive mechanisms appear to contribute to this end.