Final - Chloride

Question 1

What role does chloride play in the cell?

Answer 1

It is the most abundant extracellular anion

Question 2

What are the sources of chloride?

Answer 2

All chloride consumed in the diet is associated with sodium in salt

It is abundant in processed foods, also found in eggs, fresh meats and seafood

Question 3

How is chloride absorbed?

Answer 3

The Na+/Glucose co-transport creates an electrical gradient that provides energy necessary for the inward diffusion of Cl- through paracellular junctions

Electroneural Na transport also contributes to Cl- absorption - but not as well established

Question 4

What are the functions of chloride?

Answer 4

major electrolyte
digestion: gastric HCL
Immune function: phagocytosis
Oxygenation: bicarbonate exchange in RBC ( important in the transport of CO2 back to the lungs)

Question 5

How is chloride excreted?

Answer 5

Occurs in the GI tract, skin and kidneys
Losses through each route closely reflect Na+
Major route is via the kidney; regulated indirectly through Na+ regulation

Question 6

What dietary factors influence blood pressure?

Answer 6

sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium