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Aldosterone is the main mineralocorticoid steroid hormone produced by the zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex in the adrenal gland. [ 4 ] [ 5 ] It is essential for sodium conservation in the kidney, salivary glands, sweat glands, and colon. [ 6 ]
The outermost layer, the zona glomerulosa is the main site for the production of aldosterone, a mineralocorticoid. The synthesis and secretion of aldosterone are mainly regulated by the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system. The zona glomerulosa cells express a specific enzyme aldosterone synthase (also known as CYP11B2).
Glucocorticoids produced in the adrenal cortex were once thought to be responsible for the differentiation of chromaffin cells. More recent research suggests that BMP-4 secreted in adrenal tissue is the main responsible for this, and that glucocorticoids only play a role in the subsequent development of the cells.
Aldosterone acts on the kidneys to provide active reabsorption of sodium and an associated passive reabsorption of water, as well as the active secretion of potassium in the principal cells of the cortical collecting tubule and active secretion of protons via proton ATPases in the lumenal membrane of the intercalated cells of the collecting tubule.
The immune system specifically targets the cells of the adrenal cortex and destroys them, but Addison's disease can also be caused by a severe infection such as tuberculosis. Some symptoms include hypoglycemia and decreased blood sodium levels and increased blood potassium levels caused by a deficiency of aldosterone. These electrolyte ...
Angiotensin II acts on the adrenal cortex, causing it to release aldosterone, a hormone that causes the kidneys to retain sodium and lose potassium. Elevated plasma angiotensin II levels are responsible for the elevated aldosterone levels present during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.
Aldosterone synthase is a protein which is only expressed in the zona glomerulosa [5] of the adrenal cortex and is primarily regulated by the renin–angiotensin system. [6] It is the sole enzyme capable of synthesizing aldosterone in humans and plays an important role in electrolyte balance and blood pressure. [7]
It selectively stimulates secretion of aldosterone. The secretion of aldosterone has a diurnal rhythm. Control of aldosterone release from the adrenal cortex: [citation needed] The role of the renin–angiotensin system: Angiotensin is involved in regulating aldosterone and is the core regulator. Angiotensin II acts synergistically with potassium.