Using pH-microelectrodes the excretion of Reduced flux of protons across the luminal membrane of hydrogen-ions and bicarbonate in relation to flow rate was epithelial cells is proposed as a general feature of exocrine investigated in a single sweat gland of cystic fibrosis children. gland defects. It is then possible to describe both the cationicThe results show decreased excretion of hydrogen-ions transport defect of the sweat gland duct and the anionic and an increased excretion of bicarbonate. Evidence is pre-bicarbonate-secretory defect in one term. sented that due to reduced secretion of hydrogen-ions in the duct both the reabsorption of sodium and the secretion of Key Words: Cystic fibrosis, bicarbonate, single sweat gland, potassium may be impaired. electrolyte transport defect. The possibility is discussed that reduced flux of hydrogenions may similarly be reRponsible for the excretory defect in the duct system of the pancreas.