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Aldosterone

Adrenal Hormones
Electrocortin

Overview

Aldosterone, also known as Electrocortin, is an endogenous steroid hormone produced by the zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex. It belongs to the class of mineralocorticoids, which are a subset of corticosteroids. Aldosterone plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood pressure and electrolyte balance by promoting sodium retention and potassium excretion in the kidneys. Researchers have extensively studied its role in cardiovascular health and its implications in conditions such as hypertension and heart failure. The primary physiological roles of aldosterone include maintaining sodium and water balance, which directly influences blood volume and pressure. Researchers have found that aldosterone is involved in the pathophysiology of several cardiovascular and renal diseases, making it a significant focus of medical research. Its role in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is particularly noteworthy, as it is a target for therapeutic interventions in hypertension and heart failure. Aldosterone exerts its effects by binding to mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) in target tissues, such as the kidney, colon, and heart. Upon binding, the hormone-receptor complex translocates to the nucleus, where it influences the transcription of genes involved in sodium transport and water retention. This cascade ultimately leads to increased reabsorption of sodium and water, contributing to blood pressure regulation. The pharmacokinetic properties of aldosterone include a circulating half-life of approximately 20 minutes. It is metabolized primarily in the liver and has limited bioavailability when administered orally due to extensive first-pass metabolism. Clinically, aldosterone is not typically administered as a therapeutic agent; instead, its effects are modulated by drugs such as mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists. These antagonists are used in the treatment of conditions like hypertension and heart failure. In terms of regulatory standing, aldosterone itself is not a controlled substance, but its modulation is a critical aspect of cardiovascular therapeutics.

Mechanism of Action

Aldosterone acts primarily on mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) located in the distal nephron of the kidney. Upon binding, it initiates a cascade that leads to the transcription of genes responsible for sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion, ultimately influencing blood pressure and fluid balance.

Molecular Data

FormulaC21H28O5
Molecular Weight360.4 g/mol
CAS Number52-39-1
PubChem CID5839

Half-Life & Pharmacokinetics

EndogenousCirculating half-life ~20 minutes
OralPoor bioavailability due to first-pass metabolism

Aldosterone is not typically administered as a therapeutic agent; its effects are modulated by receptor antagonists.

Storage

Temperature

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

Light

Protect from light

Form

Typically studied in aqueous solutions for research purposes

Notes

Ensure stability by avoiding extreme temperatures and light exposure

Solubility

Aldosterone is poorly soluble in water but more soluble in ethanol and other organic solvents.

Legal Status

🇩🇪DE

Aldosterone itself is not a prescription medication in Germany; however, drugs affecting its pathway may be verschreibungspflichtig.

🇺🇸US

Aldosterone is not FDA-approved as a medication; however, drugs that modulate its effects are prescription-only.

🇦🇺AU

Aldosterone is not listed as a therapeutic good by the TGA; related medications are typically S4.

🇬🇧UK

Aldosterone is not a POM; however, medications affecting its pathway are prescription-only.

Legal status information is provided for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulatory changes. Always verify with official government sources before making any decisions.

8 Research Publications

Aldosterone and Aldosterone Modulation in Cardio-Kidney Diseases.

Review

Journal of the American College of Cardiology · 2025

Researchers observed that excess aldosterone can harm the heart and kidneys by causing inflammation and dysfunction. They found that certain medications can help counteract these harmful effects, but patients may still face risks. Further studies are needed to explore new treatment options for heart and kidney diseases.

  • Excess aldosterone contributes to inflammation and dysfunction in heart and kidneys.
  • Medications can partially block the harmful effects of aldosterone.
  • Further research is necessary to explore new treatment strategies for patients.
PubMed

Characterizing the Origins of Primary Aldosteronism.

Unknown

Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979) · 2025

Researchers observed that some people with normal blood pressure produce aldosterone independently of renin, which may increase their risk of developing high blood pressure. They identified specific markers and patterns of aldosterone production that suggest a connection between this condition, known as primary aldosteronism, and the development of hypertension.

  • Renin-independent aldosterone production is linked to increased hypertension risk.
  • Normotensive individuals can have aldosterone-producing micronodules with mutations.
  • The study highlights a spectrum of aldosterone production mechanisms in healthy individuals.
PubMed

Non-Hypertensive Effects of Aldosterone.

Review

International journal of molecular sciences · 2025

Researchers observed that aldosterone, a hormone involved in blood pressure regulation, has significant effects beyond hypertension. They found that excess aldosterone can impact the cardiovascular, immune, and metabolic systems, potentially leading to complications such as increased oxidative stress and tissue scarring.

  • Aldosterone affects not just blood pressure but also other bodily systems.
  • Excess aldosterone can lead to cardiovascular and metabolic issues.
  • Recent studies highlight the cellular mechanisms behind these non-hypertensive effects.
PubMed

Aldosterone and aldosterone synthase inhibitors in cardiorenal disease.

Review

American journal of physiology. Heart and circulatory physiology · 2024

Researchers observed that excess aldosterone contributes to heart and kidney problems, and while current treatments help, they have limitations. New aldosterone synthase inhibitors show promise in lowering blood pressure and may protect against heart failure and chronic kidney disease, but more studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness.

  • Excess aldosterone is linked to inflammation and dysfunction in the heart and kidneys.
  • Current treatments have side effects and may not fully address all issues caused by aldosterone.
  • New aldosterone synthase inhibitors have shown potential in early trials for lowering blood pressure.
PubMed

Aldosterone suppresses cardiac mitochondria.

Human

Translational research : the journal of laboratory and clinical medicine · 2022

Researchers found that elevated levels of aldosterone can harm heart cell mitochondria, which are crucial for energy production. They observed that this suppression is linked to increased oxidative stress and can be mitigated by certain treatments. Additionally, patients with high aldosterone levels showed lower mitochondrial DNA in their blood cells.

  • Aldosterone reduces the number and function of cardiac mitochondria.
  • This effect is linked to increased oxidative stress in heart cells.
  • Patients with high aldosterone levels have lower mitochondrial DNA in their blood.
PubMed

Aldosterone and Ion Channels.

Review

Vitamins and hormones · 2019

Researchers observed that aldosterone, a hormone, plays a significant role in regulating ion channels, particularly those related to sodium. This connection has been a focus of scientific studies for many years, highlighting the importance of aldosterone in various physiological processes.

  • Aldosterone is linked to sodium regulation.
  • The relationship between aldosterone and ion channels has been studied for decades.
  • Understanding this connection is crucial for grasping physiological functions.
PubMed

Salt, aldosterone and hypertension.

Review

Journal of human hypertension · 2013

Researchers observed that both aldosterone and salt independently contribute to high blood pressure and related health issues. They found that reducing salt intake can help minimize the harmful effects of both factors, and that blocking aldosterone's effects may also be beneficial. This suggests that managing these elements together could improve heart health.

  • Aldosterone and salt both independently affect hypertension and cardiovascular health.
  • Reducing salt intake can help lessen the combined negative effects of aldosterone and salt.
  • Blocking aldosterone may also reduce the desire for salt.
PubMed

[Aldosterone].

Review

Rinsho byori. The Japanese journal of clinical pathology · 2004

Researchers observed that aldosterone, a hormone related to blood pressure and fluid balance, can contribute to heart damage and hypertension. They found that blocking aldosterone's effects, alongside other treatments, may improve heart health, highlighting the importance of measuring aldosterone levels in cardiovascular disease management.

  • Aldosterone can cause heart damage and high blood pressure.
  • Blocking aldosterone's action may enhance heart protection.
  • New medications like eplerenone offer benefits without significant side effects.
PubMed

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This page is for informational and research purposes only. All information is based on published scientific literature. Nothing on this page constitutes medical advice or replaces consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.