Effects of hyperoncotic albumin and parathyroid hormone infusion on jejunal electrolyte and water absorption in the rat.

Preferential plasma volume expansion by infusion of hyperoncotic albumin solution dialyzed against distilled water (calcium-poor albumin) decreases sodium reabsorption in the dog proximal renal tubule during hydropenia. No such decrease is observed when infusing a calcium-rich hyperoncotic albumin solution. A possible role of parathyroid hormone (PTH) has been postulated. To investigate whether similar changes could be observed in intestinal electrolyte and water absorption, the effects of systemic hyperoncotic albumin infusion on jejunal transport of water, sodium, and calcium were studied in hydropenic rats by perfusing proximal jejunum in situ. It was further sought whether PTH could play a direct role in jejunal electrolyte and water transfer.