ABSTRACT
The major factor in biological pH control in eukaryotic cells is the carbon dioxide-bicarbonate-carbonate buffer (Scheme I) system. 1–4 There other biological buffers such as bulk protein and phosphate anions which can provide some buffering effect, metabolites such as lactic acid which can lower pH and tris(hydroxymethylaminomethyl) methane, (THAM®) has been used to treat acid base disorders. 5–7 pH control in prokaryotic cells is mediated by membrane transport of various ions including hydrogen, potassium and sodium. 8–10
