This study was designed to measure H-K-ATPase and Na-K-ATPase activities in rat inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) cells during potassium depletion and loading. Both enzyme activities were similarly distributed from the proximal to the distal portion of this nephron segment. One week K depletion did not stimulate H-K-ATPase activity but reduced Na-K-ATPase activity. Within 2 weeks after the onset of potassium depletion, the rats developed metabolic alkalosis, and H-K-ATPase activity was suppressed while Na-K-ATPase activity had returned to control values. H-K-ATPase activity was suppressed following potassium loading whereas Na-K-ATPase activity was unchanged. The results are consistent with the presence of H-K-ATPase in IMCD and indicate that H-K-ATPase and Na-K-ATPase activities are modulated by potassium intake.