Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026

5/6th Nephrectomy in Combination with High Salt Diet and Nitric Oxide Synthase Inhibition to Induce Chronic Kidney Disease in the Lewis Rat
Published on: July 3, 2013
Aldosterone in renal disease.
T H Hostetter1, M E Rosenberg, H N Ibrahim
1University of Minnesota, Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension, Minneapolis 55455, USA. hoste002@tc.umn.edu
Blocking the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system slows kidney disease progression. Both angiotensin II and aldosterone contribute to kidney damage and hypertension, highlighting the importance of this system in renal disease.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Endocrinology
- Cardiovascular Research
Background:
- Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) blockade is effective in slowing renal disease progression.
- Angiotensin II plays a key role in kidney disease progression through hemodynamic and non-hemodynamic effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of aldosterone in addition to angiotensin II in sustaining kidney disease.
- To evaluate the impact of RAAS-blocking drugs on aldosterone levels.
Main Methods:
- Studies predominantly utilized the remnant kidney model.
- Analysis of drug effects on hormone levels and renal pathology.
Main Results:
- RAAS blockade effectively retards experimental and human renal disease progression.
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers lower aldosterone levels.
- Both angiotensin II and aldosterone are crucial in maintaining hypertension and kidney damage.
Conclusions:
- Aldosterone, alongside angiotensin II, is integral to the progression of renal disease.
- Targeting the RAAS, including aldosterone, is vital for managing progressive kidney diseases.
Related Concept Videos
Hormonal Regulation
Antihypertensive Drugs: Potassium-Sparing Diuretics
Antihypertensive Drugs: Direct Renin Inhibitors
Heart Failure Drugs: Inhibitors of Renin-Angiotensin System
Introduction to Urinary System
The kidneys are bean-shaped organs located in the retroperitoneal space, on either side of the vertebral column, between the T12 and L3 vertebrae. They are partially protected by the rib cage and surrounded by perirenal fat, which provides cushioning. They are responsible for urine formation and play critical roles in regulating blood pressure, electrolyte levels, and hormone production. The ureters...
Renal Tubule and Collecting Duct
Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT):
The PCT is the initial segment of the renal tubule, extending from the Bowman's capsule that encloses the glomerulus. Its convoluted structure and microvilli-lined cells increase the surface area for reabsorption. The PCT reabsorbs glucose, amino acids, sodium, and water from the filtrate, ensuring essential...

