Bicarbonate Buffer System
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The bicarbonate buffer system is a mechanism that maintains the pH balance in the body's tissues. It's the most important buffer system in the body.
The system balances the levels of carbonic acid, bicarbonate ion, and carbon dioxide. This helps to maintain the pH in the blood and duodenum, which supports metabolic function.
The bicarbonate buffer system works by:
- Carbon dioxide reacts with water: This is catalyzed by carbonic anhydrase.
- Carbonic acid forms: This is the result of the carbon dioxide and water reaction.
- Carbonic acid dissociates: This creates a bicarbonate ion and a hydrogen ion.
- Bicarbonate ions take up hydrogen ions: This happens if there is too much acid.
The bicarbonate buffer system is the primary buffering system for the IF surrounding cells in tissues. The respiratory and renal systems also play a role in acid-base homeostasis.
If the bicarbonate buffer system doesn't function properly, it can lead to acid-base imbalances. These imbalances include acidemia and alkalemia in the blood.
