Renal compensation

Renal compensation is a mechanism by which the kidneys can regulate the plasma pH. It is slower than respiratory compensation, but has a greater ability to restore normal values. Kidneys maintain the acid-base balance through two mechanisms: (1) the secretion of H+ ions into the urine (from the blood) and (2) the reabsorption of bicarbonate HCO−
3 (i.e., bicarbonate moves from urine back into the blood). The regulation of H+ ions and bicarbonate HCO−
3 is determined by the concentration of the two released within the urine. These mechanisms of secretion and reabsorption balance the pH of the bloodstream. A restored acid-base balanced bloodstream thus leads to a restored acid-base balance throughout the entire body.

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