Ion Transport Across the Midgut of the Tobacco Hornworm (Manduca Sexta)

The transport of K+, Na+ and Cl− across the three morphologically distinct regions of the tobacco hornworm midgut was measured under open-circuit and short-circuit conditions. Using a saline which contained physiological levels of haemolymph ions, amino acids and sugars, it was shown that all three sections actively secrete K+ and Cl− and absorb Na+. The anterior section maintained the highest short-circuit current (Isc), transepithelial potential difference (PD) and net K+ secretion. The middle section had the lowest Isc, PD and K+ secretion, but absorbed Na+ at the greatest rate. The posterior section had the greatest rate of Cl− secretion. Omission of K+ depressed the Isc, Subsequent addition of K+ stimulated the Isc to control levels in the middle and posterior sections, but not in the anterior section. Omission of Cl− or Na+ also inhibited the Isc. Reintroduction of Cl− had no stimulatory effect and, although reintroduction of Na+ stimulated the Isc, control levels were not attained. Unlike the results reported in previous studies, the net K+ transport exceeded the Ix in all three midgut sections. The deficit in was not made up by the transport of Na+ and Cl−. The results are discussed with respect to proposed models of ion transport across this epithelium.