Effects of potassium and ouabain on sodium transport in human red cells

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Abstract
The effect of external K concentration on Na transport across the membranes of human red cells was examined. Reduction of external K below 4 mEq/liter increased cell Na concentration, reduced the rate constant for active outward transport, and increased Na influx. The additional increment in Na influx could be completely inhibited by ouabain, suggesting that it was carrier mediated. The similarities in the effects of ouabain and K on Na influx and efflux suggest the presence of exchange diffusion and that both exchange diffusion and active transport are mediated by the same mechanism.