Glomerular filtration rate in weaned elephant seal pups during natural, long term fasts

Abstract

Low urine output (< 200 mL/day) seen in weaned elephant seal pups is consistent with the physiological necessity of strict water conservation during periods of protracted, natural fasts. However, urine output represents only the difference between glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and tubular reabsorption and thus provides no information about the absolute magnitude of these parameters or their role in homeostatic regulation during the fast. We measured GFR, and extracellular volume (ECV) and estimated tubular reabsorption in seven pups that had been fasting > 6 weeks and in three others that had begun to feed in captivity using standard [3H]inulin and [125I]iothalamate clearance techniques. In fasting pups, GFR and ECV ranged from 78.9 to 135.2 mL/min and from 6.3 to 15.4 L, respectively. The GFR values are 59–91% [Formula: see text] of that predicted by standard body mass allometry. These data suggest that (i) low urine output is a consequence of tubular reabsorption rather than depressed GFR; (ii) a small but significant N and electrolyte load resulting from oxidation and reorganization of body tissue during development requires near "normal" renal function despite the potential loss of water from excess urine formation.