Regulation of Body Fluids pH and Buffer Systems

The bicarbonate buffer system acts as the first line of defense against changes in proton (H+) concentration in the body.

The bicarbonate buffer system can be regulated by adjusting the concentration of bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) and the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2) independently.

The enzyme carbonic anhydrase facilitates the conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) into carbonic acid (H2CO3) within red blood cells.

The binding of protons (H+) to hemoglobin helps to buffer excess acid.

Bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) are transported out of red blood cells through an exchange with chloride anions (Cl-)

The bicarbonate buffer system and hemoglobin work together to maintain blood pH and transport carbon dioxide (CO2).

In the lungs, carbon dioxide (CO2) is transformed back into carbonic acid (H2CO3).

The normal concentration of bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) in the human body is 24 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/l).

When the alveolar ventilation rate is regulated, the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2) decreases in response to signals from the central nervous system (CNS).

The pH of the body influences the speed of metabolic reactions.