Unorthodox sites and modes of aldosterone action.

Abstract

Aldosterone controls electrolyte balance by acting on the renal epithelium. However, there is strong evidence that vascular endothelium is another target for mineralocorticoids. Endothelial cells gain sensitivity to diuretics when exposed to aldosterone. Atomic force microscopy detects such phenomena. It is speculated that endothelium and kidney join forces in the regulation of body fluids.