Vacuolar H+-ATPase expression is increased in acid-secreting intercalated cells in kidneys of rats with hypercalcaemia-induced alkalosis

Aims: Hypercalcaemia is known to be associated with systemic metabolic alkalosis, although the underlying mechanism is uncertain. Therefore, we aimed to examine whether hypercalcaemia was associated with changes in the expression of acid–base transporters in the kidney. Methods: Rats were infused with human parathyroid hormone (PTH, 15 μg kg−1 day−1), or vehicle for 48 h using osmotic minipumps. Results: The rats treated with PTH developed hypercalcaemia and exhibited metabolic alkalosis (arterial HCO: 31.1 ± 0.8 vs. 28.1 ± 0.8 mmol L−1 in controls, P