Indirect evidence for enhancement of Na-K-ATPase activity with stimulation of rectal gland secretion.

The relation between active chloride secretion and Na-K-ATPase activity was studied in the isolated perfused rectal gland of Squalus acanthias stimulated by cAMP and theophylline. Ouabain inhibited both secretion and oxygen uptake in stimulated glands. Stimulation of chloride secretion by cAMP and theophylline resulted in a six- to sevenfold rise in ouabain-inhibitable oxygen consumption. Intracellular sodium concentration decreased while intracellular potassium rose. These findings suggest activation of Na-K-ATPase. On the other hand, the activity of Na-K-ATPase in whole homogenates of rectal gland tissue was not increased after cAMP stimulation of the perfused gland, nor was ouabain binding increased. Calculated intracellular chloride concentration fell after secretion was stimulated in a way consistent with an action of cAMP to increase luminal permeability to chloride.