Electrolytes are electrically charged minerals. Two of the most prevalent in the body are sodium and potassium. Some others include calcium, phosphate, magnesium and chloride. Electrolytes are important throughout the body, in every organ. They affect both the liver and kidneys, while these organs also affect the levels of electrolytes.
Electrical and Chemical Signaling
Electrolytes are distributed unequally through the body. For example, sodium and calcium have a relatively high concentration outside the cells, while potassium and phosphate have a high concentration inside the cells. These concentrations can change to signal the cell to perform or stop an activity. For example, changes in sodium concentration can cause the kidneys to release a hormone that can change the electrolyte composition of the blood and the blood pressure. The flow of sodium and potassium into and out of the liver cells can lead them to release various proteins or nutrients.
Proper Function
The kidneys and liver are constantly working. The kidneys help filter the blood and control the blood pressure, while the liver has many complex functions that include making vital substances and detoxifying the blood. Some of these processes require energy from electrolytes. For example, liver cells may take up nutrients using energy from the flow of sodium into the liver cells.
Fluid Balance
Liver and kidney cells are composed mostly of water. The water must be in a correct balance inside and outside the cells. Too much water inside the cells can cause them to swell or even break open. Too little water causes them to shrink and become dysfunctional. Special protein pumps on the surface of the cells balance the electrolytes inside and outside the cells. This also effects water balance, because water tends to follow the concentration of electrolytes, especially sodium.
Kidney and Liver Regulation
Electrolytes play a role in most functions of the kidney and liver, although they are only one component in an elaborate system of activities. This system is not only effected by electrolytes, but it also controls levels of electrolytes in the body. For example, the kidneys regulate levels of sodium and potassium in the blood by removing excess levels to the urine.
References
- "Physiology"; Linda S.Costanzo; 4th Ed 2010
- "Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry"; David L. Nelson, et al.; 4th Ed 2004
- "Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease"; Vinay Kumar, et al.; 8th Ed 2009
