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Cation distributions and the energy status of cells

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Abstract

Further evidence is presented as to the distribution of the four major cations in biological systems: sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. A relationship between ATPase activity and the cation balances is examined, but as the ATPase activity is itself dependent upon ion gradients the steady state of a cell must be dependent upon the ATPase enzyme concentration, the ion concentrations which it helps to maintain, and the availability of ATP. The effect of the product of these three terms upon the stability of fibosomes and other structures is pursued and its ramifications in cell growth (protein synthesis) and electrical activity discussed. Consequential effects, which could be linked with differentiation and retention of information in such structures as the brain, are also considered.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Wadham College, Oxford, England

    R. J. P. Williams

  2. Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory, Oxford, England

    R. J. P. Williams

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  1. R. J. P. Williams
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Williams, R.J.P. Cation distributions and the energy status of cells. J Bioenerg Biomembr 1, 215–225 (1970). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01515982

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