Effect of probenecid on the transport of methyl mercury in erythrocytes by the organic anion transport system.

The uptake of methyl mercury (MeHg) by isolated erythrocytes from rats was studied at 5 degrees and 20 degrees C. The Na+ ion was used to examine exerted effects of probenecid on the uptake of MeHg through the organic anion transport system. Different extracellular pH levels were used to examine effects on the uptake of MeHg and on probenecid induced effects on the uptake of MeHg through the organic anion transport system; the effects of three anisotonic conditions were also determined. The results showed: (1) probenecid might partially change the role of Na+ ion from inhibition to stimulation for the uptake of MeHg; (2) the organic anion transport system for the uptake of MeHg was pH-dependent within the physiological range of extracellular pH; (3) the organic transport system for the uptake of MeHg was independent of deformation of the erythrocyte membrane.