1 Hematology Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Presbyterian-University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, and the Department of Pediatrics, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine
Measurements of transmembrane potassium flux in the erythrocytes of newborn infants and normal adults demonstrated an increased net loss of potassium in the infants. This loss appeared to be a consequence of decreased active potassium influx rather than an increased membrane permeability. These studies suggest that the erythrocytes of newborn infants may be more vulnerable to destruction resulting from membrane injury because of their reduced capacity for active transport.
Submitted on July 1, 1968