Renal compensation

Kidneys within the human body, where renal compensation takes place.

Renal compensation is a mechanism by which the kidneys can regulate the plasma pH. It is slower than respiratory compensation, but has a greater ability to restore normal values. Kidneys maintain the acid-base balance through two mechanisms: (1) the secretion of H+ ions into the urine (from the blood) and (2) the reabsorption of bicarbonate HCO−
3 (i.e., bicarbonate moves from urine back into the blood).[1] The regulation of H+ ions and bicarbonate HCO−
3 is determined by the concentration of the two released within the urine.[1] These mechanisms of secretion and reabsorption balance the pH of the bloodstream.[1] A restored acid-base balanced bloodstream thus leads to a restored acid-base balance throughout the entire body.

  1. ^ a b c "Video: Overview of the Role of the Kidneys in Acid-Base Balance". Merck Manuals Professional Edition. Retrieved 2023-04-03.