Regulation of the acid-basic equilibrium of the body

Question

How do kidneys perform the regulation of the acid-basic equilibrium of the body? How alkalosis and acidosis are respectively corrected by the kidneys?

Answer 1

Kidneys may regulate the alkalinity or acidity of plasma varying the secretion of bicarbonate and hydrogen ions. In alkalosis, the kidneys secrete more bicarbonate and the equilibrium of formation of bicarbonate from the carbon dioxide and water shifts towards the formation of more hydrogen ions and bicarbonate and then the plasma pH is lowered. When body undergoes acidosis the kidneys release more hydrogen ions and hold more bicarbonate therefore, the equilibrium of formation of bicarbonate from water and carbon dioxide shifts towards consumption of more hydrogen and the plasma pH is increased.