Hypertension and the expanding role of aldosterone

MacKenzie, S. M. and Connell, J. M.C. (2006) Hypertension and the expanding role of aldosterone. Current Hypertension Reports, 8(3), pp. 255-261. (doi: 10.1007/s11906-006-0059-y) (PMID:17147925)

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Abstract

Aldosterone is the principal human mineralocorticoid and plays a significant role in hypertension and cardiovascular morbidity. Classically, aldosterone is synthesized in the adrenal zona glomerulosa and binds to mineralocorticoid receptors in the cytosol of target epithelial cells. Nonepithelial and rapid nongenomic actions of aldosterone have now also been described, as well as a number of extra-adrenal sites of synthesis, including the central nervous system. Recent studies also suggest that elevated aldosterone biosynthesis, as defined by an increased aldosterone-to-renin ratio, is present in up to 15% of essential hypertensives and that aldosterone levels predict the development of hypertension in normotensive individuals. Furthermore, mineralocorticoid-receptor antagonists demonstrate that aldosterone is a significant contributor to cardiovascular pathology. In this article, we present the evidence behind these findings and explore the expanding role of aldosterone as a key cardiovascular hormone.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Connell, Professor John and MacKenzie, Dr Scott
Authors: MacKenzie, S. M., and Connell, J. M.C.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences
College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
Journal Name:Current Hypertension Reports
ISSN:1522-6417
ISSN (Online):1534-3111

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