Aldosterone

Aldosterone.

Aldosterone plays a pivotal role in electrolyte and fluid homeostasis and thus control of blood pressure. The "classical" view of aldosterone action is that it targets epithelia of the distal colon and renal nephron to stimulate Na(+) (re)absorption and K(+) secretion. In these cells, aldosterone binds steroid receptors, promoting translocation to the nucleus, where they modulate gene expressio...

Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone activation in heart failure, aldosterone escape.

Renin - Angiotensin - Aldosterone System

Chronic heart failure (CHF) is associated with endothelial dysfunction. Activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is believed to be important in the deterioration of endothelial dysfunction in CHF through stimulation of oxidative stress. Whereas angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I) improve endothelial function in CHF, the effects of angiotensin II AT 1-receptor b...

Aldosterone and cardiovascular disease.

Aldosterone is an adrenal hormone that regulates sodium, fluid, and potassium balance. Jerome Conn first described the syndrome of autonomous and excessive aldosterone secretion or "primary aldosteronism." Contrary to the historical belief, recent studies indicate that primary aldosteronism is a common cause of hypertension with a prevalence of 5-10% among general hypertensive patients. Various...

Aldosterone: villain or protector?

During the past decade, there has been heightened interest in aldosterone as a cardiovascular risk factor, fueled by studies documenting its effects on tissues other than epithelial cells. Of particular interest is the role of aldosterone in exacerbating vascular injury. It is likely that the mechanisms mediating the vascular effects of aldosterone differ from its effects on epithelial cells, e...