Abstract
LLC-PK1 cells were cultured on a permeable support in a two-compartment culture system. Confluent monolayers received an ultrafiltrate-like solution at the apical side and a plasma-like solution at the basolateral side. The distribution of various solutes, including phosphate, calcium, and oxalate over both compartments was measured in time. The transport of water was monitored by alterations in fluid concentrations of radiolabeled inulin. Bicarbonate, glucose, and phosphate were transported rapidly from the apical to basolateral side of the monolayer. Sodium and chloride were reabsorbed without major consequences for the osmolality in the apical and basal fluid. Calcium and potassium were also reabsorbed, but to a smaller extent than sodium. The luminal concentration of oxalate gradually increased to values that were at least three times higher (12.0 ± 0.4 μmol/l) than those in the contraluminal fluid (3.8 ± 0.1 μmol/l). However, since the luminal rise of oxalate completely matched the rise of inulin in the apical fluid this appeared to be the passive consequence of active water reabsorption rather than of net directed oxalate transport. The LLC-PK1 model could prove useful to study the regulation of proximal tubule water transport and its effect on luminal stone salt concentrations under different physiological conditions.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
Received: 16 May 1998 / Accepted: 20 August 1998
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Verkoelen, C., Kok, D., van der Boom, B. et al. LLC-PK1 cells as a model system to study proximal tubule transport of water and other compounds relevant for renal stone disease. Urological Research 27, 109–115 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1007/s002400050096
Published:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s002400050096