Though sodium and potassium levels remained stable in our experimental model of ALF it is important to remember that cirrhotic patients with acute liver failure often suffer from impaired kidney function due to complex circulatory changes involving splanchnic vasodilatation, decreased effective circulatory volume, activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and renal vasoconstriction (Hepatorenal Syndrome). This evidence concerns the gene REN and hepatorenal syndrome.