EFFECTS OF LOW-SODIUM, HIGH-POTASSIUM DIETARY-INTAKE ON COCHLEAR LATERAL WALL NA-ATPASE(, K+)

The effect of a low Na+, high K+ diet on Na+,K+-ATPase levels in cochl ear lateral wall tissues was investigated in laboratory rats by using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The low Na+, high K+ diet induce d high aldosterone plasma levels in the animals as well as changes in plasma cation levels. Animals that received a low Na+, high K+ diet de monstrated a statistically significant (97%) increase in Na+,K+-ATPase levels in the stria vascularis when compared to animals that received a control diet. This increase in strial Na+,K+-ATPase levels was bloc ked only 70% by administration of the aldosterone antagonist, spironol actone. Findings therefore indicate that strial Na+,K+-ATPase may be m odulated by both aldosterone and Na+,K+ plasma levels. Na+,K+-ATPase l evels in the spiral ligament were not affected by the experimental tre atment. These findings suggest that spiral ligament Na+,K+-ATPase leve ls may be regulated by factors other than aldosterone and Na+,K+ plasm a levels. This study provides further insight into the mechanisms of t he beneficial effects of salt restriction and potassium loading in pat ients with Meniere's disease.