Enzyme distribution along the nephron

Abstract

From the viewpoint of physiological function, the authors reviewed the heterogeneity of the kidney and found that patterns of enzyme activities indicate that metabolic functions are unevenly distributed along the nephron. They express the need for caution when comparing enzyme activities and metabolic fluxes because the patterns given represent mostly maximal capacities under standardized in vitro conditions and do not consider local regulatory metabolite, ion, and substrate conditions. However, they give, we feel, a precise picture about a relative distribution pattern of biochemical capacities along the nephron and may assist in the interpretation of the role of these reactions relative to renal transport functions.