Mineralocorticoids

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Mineralocorticoids

Mineralocorticoids (pronounced: min-er-al-o-corti-coids) are a class of steroid hormones that are produced in the adrenal cortex, one of the three major layers of the adrenal glands. The primary mineralocorticoid is aldosterone, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's electrolyte and water balance.

Etymology

The term "mineralocorticoid" is derived from the fact that these hormones retain minerals in the body, specifically sodium and potassium. The suffix "-oid" means "similar to" or "derived from", indicating that these hormones are similar to cortisone, a type of corticosteroid.

Function

Mineralocorticoids function primarily to regulate the balance of water and electrolytes in the body, with the primary focus on the conservation of sodium. They do this by influencing the reabsorption of sodium and excretion of potassium in the kidney. This regulation helps maintain blood volume and control systemic vascular resistance, which contributes to the regulation of blood pressure.

Related Terms

  • Aldosterone: The primary mineralocorticoid hormone that regulates the balance of salts and water in the body.
  • Adrenal Cortex: The outer layer of the adrenal glands where mineralocorticoids are produced.
  • Corticosteroid: A class of steroid hormones that includes mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids.
  • Electrolyte: Minerals in the body that have an electric charge, such as sodium and potassium.
  • Water Balance: The balance of water intake and water loss in the body.

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