Plasma volume regulation during heat stress: albumin synthesis vs capillary permeability. A comparison between desert and non-desert species.

1. Plasma albumin synthesis was measured in rats and sand rats (Psammomys obesus) during heat acclimation (34 degrees C) and following thermal dehydration (37 degrees C) using 3H 1-leucine as a tracer. 2. In rats, heat acclimation resulted in 48% reduction in albumin synthesis. In sand rats synthesis increased by 160%. Both species achieved a new stabilization of the albumin synthetic system on the 5th day of acclimation. 3. Following thermal dehydration albumin synthesis increased in rats and decreased in sand rats. Acclimation did not alter this response. 4. In our dehydrating system plasma volume was maintained via maintenance of adequate albumin mass. In rats, albumin synthesis apparently contributes to this process. In sand rat, vascular permeability rather than albumin synthesis plays this role.