Animal models of primary aldosteronism

Primary aldosteronism is considered the most prevalent form of secondary hypertension with pathophysiological and clinical features different from those of essential hypertension. Despite its high prevalence with the exception of the small subgroup of patients with familial hyperaldosteronism type I, the underlying genetic and molecular basis of this common disease is still largely unknown. In this context animal models can provide important insights in the physiology of aldosterone regulation that can serve as a starting point for investigation of mechanisms involved also in autonomous aldosterone secretion. Mouse models with defined genetic modification can further be utilized to prove functional relevance of these predefined candidate genes.Finally, animal models can be used to investigate cardiovascular and metabolic consequences of unopposed aldosterone secretion and potential restoration of these parameters through pharmacologic interventions. This review will provide a brief overview on animal models currently available for primary aldosteronism and describe in vivo screening strategies that are likely to aid in the elucidation of molecular and genetic mechanisms involved in autonomous aldosterone secretion.