Gibbs–Donnan effect

Gibbs–Donnan effect refers to the phenomenon that occurs across a semipermeable membrane when solutions of different ion concentrations are separated by this membrane. This effect is named after Josiah Willard Gibbs and Frederick George Donnan, who first described this behavior in the early 20th century. The Gibbs–Donnan effect is significant in understanding the behavior of cells and tissues in various physiological and pathological conditions, as it influences the distribution of ions across cell membranes, affecting cell volume, membrane potential, and the osmotic balance in the body.

Overview

The Gibbs–Donnan effect arises due to the presence of impermeant ions, which are ions that cannot cross the semipermeable membrane. When a solution containing impermeant ions is separated by a semipermeable membrane from a solution of permeable ions, an electrochemical equilibrium is established. This equilibrium results in an unequal distribution of ions, leading to differences in ion concentration and electrical potential across the membrane. The presence of impermeant ions causes the osmotic pressure on their side of the membrane to increase, drawing water into that compartment, which can lead to a difference in volume across the membrane.

Mechanism

The mechanism of the Gibbs–Donnan effect can be explained by the principles of chemical equilibrium and electro-neutrality. The semipermeable membrane allows the passage of water and small ions but restricts the movement of larger ions or molecules. When the system reaches equilibrium, the product of the concentrations of the diffusible ions on one side of the membrane is equal to the product on the other side, according to the Gibbs–Donnan equilibrium equation. However, because impermeant ions are present on one side of the membrane, the concentration of diffusible ions will adjust to balance the osmotic pressure difference, leading to an unequal distribution of ions.

Physiological Significance

The Gibbs–Donnan effect has profound implications in physiology. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the osmotic balance and volume of cells. For example, in red blood cells, the presence of impermeant negatively charged proteins inside the cell contributes to the cell's osmotic balance and membrane potential. Similarly, the effect is essential in determining the distribution of ions in the extracellular and intracellular fluids, influencing nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and the regulation of blood pH.

Clinical Relevance

Clinically, the Gibbs–Donnan effect is significant in understanding and managing conditions related to fluid and electrolyte balance. It is relevant in scenarios such as dialysis, where the movement of ions across semipermeable membranes is crucial for the removal of waste products from the blood. Additionally, disturbances in the Gibbs–Donnan equilibrium can contribute to edema, which is the accumulation of fluid in tissues, often seen in conditions like heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and kidney disease.

Conclusion

The Gibbs–Donnan effect is a fundamental concept in biochemistry and physiology, explaining the distribution of ions across semipermeable membranes and its implications for cell function and fluid balance in the body. Understanding this effect is essential for comprehending various physiological processes and for the clinical management of diseases related to fluid and electrolyte imbalances.