ABSTRACT
The regulation of the biosynthesis of aldosterone in the adrenal gland is very complex due to both direct and indirect actions of the various control factors. This complexity is greater since the control factors concerned act at different sites, either outside the adrenal cell on the plasma membrane or inside the cell at the molecular level in enzymatic systems. Interesting articles have been written on the control of aldosterone secretion by adrenals, and this chapter discusses the mode and mechanism of action of these factors with emphasis on research in this field. Aldosterone is secreted by adrenocortical tissues of pratically all mammals investigated, including the whale. Only adrenocortical cells seem to be capable of aldosterone synthesis. Avian and amphibian aldosterone-secreting cells are intimately intermixed with those of the medulla. Although corticosterone is believed to be the main precursor of aldosterone, it is not an obligatory intermediate in the conversion of progesterone to aldosterone.
