Aldosterone: An Aldehyde-Cholesterol Steroid

Aldosterone is a corticosteroid hormone that plays a significant role in regulating minerals in the body, particularly sodium and potassium. It is produced by the adrenal gland and reabsorbs sodium back into the bloodstream, which helps increase blood pressure and volume. Additionally, aldosterone secretes potassium into the urine. The release of aldosterone is primarily stimulated by angiotensin 2, a hormone involved in maintaining blood pressure and volume. Diseases related to aldosterone include hyperaldosteronism, which can be caused by excessive consumption of licorice and lead to potassium depletion and cardiac complications.