In: Anatomy and Physiology
Bioterrorists are planning to use a plant toxin that interferes
with the function of the exchange pump responsible for the chloride
shift. Explain the pathophysiology of the toxin and its effect on
the body.
Using your knowledge of transport of carbon dioxide. answer the
following questions. Be sure to clearly label the different
parts.
Part A. Explain the chloride shift in terms of the bicarbonate ion.
(1 mark)
Part B. What will happen when the chloride shift does not occur?
Part C. How will the body attempt to correct for a lack of chloride
shift?
A.
The chloride shift or Hamburger phenomenon refers to the exchange of chloride ions and bicarbonate ions across the membrane of RBC. Band-3 protein is an antiport protein that moves chloride ions inside the RBC and bicarbonate ions outside the RBC into plasma.
B. Significance of chloride shift: Maintaining ionic balance and hematocrit value.
The hematocrit value (percentage of blood occupied by RBC) increases due to the influx of water inside the RBC.
If the chloride shift does not occur, the ionic balance would be disturbed and the volume occupied by RBC inn the blood decreases.