Collecting Duct System - Cell Types - Intercalated Cells

Intercalated Cells

Intercalated cells come in α and β varieties and participate in acid-base homeostasis.

Type of cell Secretes Reabsorbs
α-intercalated cells acid (via an apical H+-ATPase and H+/K+ exchanger) in the form of hydrogen ions bicarbonate (via band 3, a basolateral Cl-/HCO3- exchanger)
β-intercalated cells bicarbonate (via pendrin a specialised apical Cl-/HCO3-) acid (via a basal H+-ATPase)

For their contribution to acid-base homeostasis, the intercalated cells play important roles in the kidney's response to acidosis and alkalosis. Damage to the α-intercalated cell's ability to secrete acid can result in distal renal tubular acidosis (RTA type I, classical RTA).

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