aldosteronetorenin

Aldosteronetorenin is a nonstandard term occasionally used to refer to the functional interaction between aldosterone and renin within the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS). It does not denote a distinct molecule or pathway, but rather the coordinated regulation of mineralocorticoid activity and renin release that governs blood pressure and electrolyte balance.

In the RAAS, renin released by the juxtaglomerular cells cleaves hepatic angiotensinogen to angiotensin I. Angiotensin-converting enzyme then forms angiotensin II, which stimulates aldosterone synthesis and secretion from the adrenal cortex. Aldosterone acts on mineralocorticoid receptors in the distal nephron to increase sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion, expanding extracellular fluid volume and elevating blood pressure. The system includes feedback: increased blood pressure and sodium delivery to the macula densa suppress renin release, while the aldosterone effect can indirectly dampen renin activity.

Clinical relevance: The aldosterone–renin axis is assessed using the aldosterone-to-renin ratio (ARR) to screen for primary hyperaldosteronism; a pattern of low renin with high aldosterone supports diagnosis. Treatments targeting this axis include renin–angiotensin system inhibitors (ACE inhibitors, ARBs) and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (spironolactone, eplerenone).

See also: Renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system, Aldosterone, Renin, Angiotensin II.