Mineralocorticoid

Definition

Mineralocorticoids are a class of corticosteroids, which are steroid hormones produced in the adrenal cortex that regulate the balance of water and electrolytes in the body. They play a crucial role in maintaining blood pressure and electrolyte homeostasis.

Related terms

Aldosterone:

A primary mineralocorticoid responsible for increasing sodium reabsorption in the kidneys, thus increasing water retention and blood pressure.

Corticosteroids: A group of steroid hormones produced in the adrenal cortex involved in a wide range of physiological processes including stress response, immune response, and regulation of inflammation.

Electrolyte Homeostasis: The balance of minerals and ions in the body’s fluids, crucial for normal function of cells and organs