Abstract
Pulmonary epithelium changes after birth from Cl− secretion to Na+ absorption. To evaluate this transition, the maximal potential difference (PD) and the voltage response to superfusion with 10−5 M amiloride (Am), an inhibitor of Na+ absorption, were recorded between a Ringer perfused bridge placed on the nasal mucosa and a subcutaneous reference electrode. The PD was sequentially measured during the first 72 hrs of life across the nasal epithelium of healthy term neonates, healthy preterm neonates (29.7±0.3wks). neonates (30.2± 1.2wks) with Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS), and neonates (37.6± l.lwks) with Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn (TTNB). PDs (mean±SEM) and Am inhibition (%; at<24h) were:
The PDs of RDS and TTNB neonates (<24h) were different (p<0.001) than healthy term and preterm neonates and term disease controls (e.g. PFC;-21.9±0.4mV;n=4). During the first 72h, only the PD of TTNB neonates changed; this change paralleled clinical improvement. PDs of healthy older children (3-36mo;-31.8±0.6mV;n=6) and adults (-31.6+0.8mV;n=90) were higher than the 72h neonatal values (p<0.001). The PD change following Am was not different between all groups. We conclude 1) nasal PD is lower in term healthy neonates than in older children and adults; 2) Na absorption contributes to the PD in the early postnatal period; 3) the PD of RDS neonates is lower than healthy term and preterm neonates; and 4) the PD of TTNB neonates is higher than healthy and disease term controls. These findings suggest that discrete dysfunctions of respiratory epithelial ion transport are patho-physiologic components of RDS and TTNB.
Article PDF
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Gowen, C., Lawson, E., Gingras-Leatherman, J. et al. 1399 NASAL ELECTRIC POTENTIAL DIFFERENCE AND RESPONSE TO AMILORIDE SUPERFUSION IN NEONATES. Pediatr Res 19, 344 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198504000-01423
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198504000-01423