Mineralocorticoid

Mineralocorticoids are a class of steroid hormones that are produced in the adrenal cortex. They are involved in the regulation of salt and water balance in the body. The primary mineralocorticoid is aldosterone, which acts on the kidney to increase the reabsorption of sodium and water and the excretion of potassium.

Production

Mineralocorticoids are produced in the zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex. The production of these hormones is stimulated by the renin-angiotensin system, which is activated when there is a decrease in blood volume or blood pressure.

Function

The main function of mineralocorticoids is to maintain the balance of salt and water in the body. They do this by acting on the cells of the kidney to increase the reabsorption of sodium and water and the excretion of potassium. This helps to maintain blood volume and blood pressure.

Disorders

Disorders of mineralocorticoid function can lead to a variety of conditions. Overproduction of mineralocorticoids can lead to hyperaldosteronism, which can cause high blood pressure and low potassium levels. Underproduction can lead to Addison's disease, which can cause low blood pressure and high potassium levels.

See also

• Corticosteroid
• Glucocorticoid
• Adrenal gland
• Renin-angiotensin system