Bicarbonate‐rich fluid secretion predicted by a computational model of guinea‐pig pancreatic duct epithelium

Abstract

The ductal system of the pancreas secretes large volumes of alkaline fluid containing HCO3− concentrations as high as 140 mm during hormonal stimulation. A computational model has been constructed to explore the underlying ion transport mechanisms. Parameters were estimated by fitting the model to experimental data from guinea‐pig pancreatic ducts. The model was readily able to secrete 140 mm HCO3−. Its capacity to do so was not dependent upon special properties of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) anion channels and solute carrier family 26 member A6 (SLC26A6) anion exchangers. We conclude that the main requirement for secreting high HCO3− concentrations is to minimize the secretion of Cl− ions. These findings help to clarify the mechanism responsible for pancreatic HCO3− secretion, a vital process that prevents the formation of protein plugs and viscous mucus in the ducts, which could otherwise lead to pancreatic disease.