Ammonia metabolism during acid-base disturbance

Acid-base disturbance alters the metabolism of glutamine. The extraction of glutamine by the kidney as well as renal ammoniagenesis from glutamine are increased in chronic metabolic acidosis. The metabolism of glutamine within other organs may be altered, either resulting from or triggering the adaptation in the kidney. As our knowledge of mitochondrial transport unfolds, so also will our understanding of the metabolism of glutamine in the renal cells. The interorgan co-operation in providing more glutamine to the kidney, when it is needed, is a relatively new and exciting area, which remains to be elucidated. We are indebted to Professor Conway for providing us with a technique for measuring ammonia and for acting as an inspiration for others to theorise the mechanism of ammonia transport.