Effect of potassium on renal acidification and acid-base homeostasis.

In summary, altered potassium homeostasis can modify bicarbonate reabsorption by the proximal tubule and alter acidification by the distal nephron both by affecting proton transport in a primary fashion and by modifying renal ammonia production. With physiologic variations in dietary K+ intake, these processes may serve to sustain concurrent potassium and acid-base homeostasis. However, with pathologic degrees of potassium depletion and hyperkalemia, metabolic alkalosis and acidosis, respectively, can result.