Final Answer:
Function of Aldosterone: Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that plays a crucial role in regulating electrolyte balance and blood pressure within the body. It primarily acts on the kidneys to increase the reabsorption of sodium ions and water while excreting potassium ions. This process helps maintain proper fluid balance, blood volume, and blood pressure.
Triggers for Aldosterone Secretion: The secretion of aldosterone from the adrenal cortex is primarily stimulated by the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). This system responds to decreased blood pressure, reduced blood volume, or low sodium levels in the blood. When the kidneys detect these changes, they release renin, an enzyme that triggers a series of reactions leading to the production of angiotensin II.
Angiotensin II then stimulates the adrenal cortex to release aldosterone, promoting sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion, ultimately helping to restore blood pressure and electrolyte balance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Function of Aldosterone: Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, specifically the adrenal cortex. Its primary function is to regulate electrolyte balance, primarily sodium and potassium, in the body. By acting on the kidneys, aldosterone enhances the reabsorption of sodium ions and water while facilitating the excretion of potassium ions. This mechanism helps maintain the body's fluid balance, blood volume, and blood pressure.
Triggers for Aldosterone Secretion: The adrenal cortex secretes aldosterone in response to signals from the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). This system is activated when the body detects low blood pressure, reduced blood volume, or decreased sodium levels in the bloodstream. When the kidneys sense these changes, they release renin, an enzyme that initiates a cascade of reactions. Renin acts on angiotensinogen to form angiotensin I, which is then converted to angiotensin II by angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE).
Angiotensin II stimulates the adrenal cortex to release aldosterone. Aldosterone, in turn, acts on the kidneys to increase the reabsorption of sodium and water while promoting the excretion of potassium, helping to restore blood pressure and electrolyte balance.