Aldosterone

Aldosterone
1.Increases the reabsorption of sodium and water and the release (secretion) of potassium in the kidneys-> increases blood volume and, therefore, increases blood pressure.
Drugs: antihypertensives ex) spironolactone lowers blood pressure by blocking the aldosterone receptor.
2.Is part of the renin-angiotensin system.
3.A measurement of aldosterone in blood is termed PAC (Plasma Aldosterone Concentration). May be compared to PRA(Plasma Renin Activity). PAC/PRA ratio.
4.Is a steroid hormone (mineralocorticoid family) produced by the outer section of the adrenal cortex in the adrenal gland (Zona Glomerulosa), acts on the distal tubules and collecting ducts of the kidney to cause the conservation of sodium, secretion of potassium, increased water retention, and increased blood pressure.
5.Its activity is reduced in Addison's disease and increased in Conn syndrome.




Fucking awesome page: http://www.sacs.ucsf.edu/home/cooper/Anat118/urinary/urinary98.htm