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Updated: Mar 18, 2026

Mechanism of Regulation of Adipocyte Numbers in Adult Organisms Through Differentiation and Apoptosis Homeostasis
Published on: June 3, 2016
Adipocytes, aldosterone and obesity-related hypertension
Aurelie Nguyen Dinh Cat1, Malou Friederich-Persson2, Anna White2
1Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical SciencesBHF Glasgow Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK Rhian.Touyz@glasgow.ac.uk Aurelie.NguyenDinhCat@glasgow.ac.uk.
Abstract:
Understanding the mechanisms linking obesity with hypertension is important in the current obesity epidemic as it may improve therapeutic interventions. Plasma aldosterone levels are positively correlated with body mass index and weight loss in obese patients is reported to be accompanied by decreased aldosterone levels. This suggests a relationship between adipose tissue and the production/secretion of aldosterone. Aldosterone is synthesized principally by the adrenal glands, but its production may be regulated by many factors, including factors secreted by adipocytes. In addition, studies have reported local synthesis of aldosterone in extra-adrenal tissues, including adipose tissue. Experimental studies have highlighted a role for adipocyte-secreted aldosterone in the pathogenesis of obesity-related cardiovascular complications via the mineralocorticoid receptor. This review focuses on how aldosterone secretion may be influenced by adipose tissue and the importance of these mechanisms in the context of obesity-related hypertension.
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