The Cl-/HCO3- exchanger (AE2 isoform) and the Na+/K(+)-ATPase at the choroid plexus are both thought to be involved in CSF secretion. However, both transport mechanisms are also postulated to have a role in CSF ion homeostasis raising questions as to which parameters control the expression of these transporters? Northern blots have been used to assess AE2 mRNA levels in rats subjected to alterations in blood pH or blood osmolality (a factor affecting CSF secretion). Six hours of alkalosis induced a 40% increase in AE2 mRNA (p < 0.01), suggesting that alterations in the expression of this transporter play a role in CSF pH homeostasis. In contrast, changes in osmolality did not affect AE2 mRNA. Western blots of Na+/K(+)-ATPase subunits were also examined to determine whether hypo and hyperkalemia affect protein levels of this transporter. There was a positive correlation between the plasma K+ concentration and both alpha 1- and beta 1 subunit protein levels suggesting a role for this transporter in CSF K+ homeostasis. As changes in plasma K+ and pH affect choroid plexus ion transporters but do not appear to alter CSF production, these results suggest the presence of compensatory mechanisms. Understanding of such mechanisms may facilitate therapeutic control of CSF production.