The composition of animal cells: solutes contributing to osmotic pressure and charge balance

Burton, R.F. (1983) The composition of animal cells: solutes contributing to osmotic pressure and charge balance. Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology. Part B: Comparative Biochemistry, 76(4), pp. 663-671. (doi: 10.1016/0305-0491(83)90375-9) (PMID:6362972)

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Abstract

1. The cytoplasmic solutes of vertebrates and invertebrates, other than Na, K and Cl, are surveyed in relation to their influence on ionic regulation through osmolality and charge balance. 2. The most abundant include MgATP, phosphagens, amino acids, various other nitrogen and phosphorus compounds and sometimes anaerobic end products and antifreeze agents. 3. Differences in muscle osmolality, e.g. between marine and non-marine animals, affect mainly nitrogenous solutes of no net charge, such as certain amino acids, taurine, betaine, trimethylamine oxide and urea. 4. The high osmolality of axoplasm in marine invertebrates is due more to anions such as aspartate, glutamate and isethionate.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Burton, Dr Richard
Authors: Burton, R.F.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Life Sciences
Journal Name:Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology. Part B: Comparative Biochemistry
Publisher:Pergamon Press
ISSN:0305-0491

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