Aldosterone: Monitoring the Regulation of Blood Pressure
Aldosterone is a steroid hormone that regulates sodium and potassium levels in the blood. It functions within the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Aldosterone promotes sodium reabsorption in kidney cells while moving potassium into the kidneys for excretion. This process is critical for maintaining electrolyte balance and healthy blood pressure.
The Impact of Aldosterone on HealthÂ
High aldosterone levels, or hyperaldosteronism, increase sodium and reduce potassium in the blood. This causes water retention and raises blood pressure. Elevated blood pressure increases the risk of cardiovascular and kidney diseases, including hypertension. Hypertension significantly raises the chances of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure. Managing aldosterone levels is essential for preventing these conditions.
Clinical Applications of Aldosterone RegulationÂ
Medications that target aldosterone secretion or function are used to treat hypertension. Lisinopril blocks angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), reducing aldosterone production. Spironolactone blocks aldosterone receptors directly to lower its effects. These drugs help decrease water retention and blood pressure while maintaining potassium levels. They are often combined with other treatments to protect the heart and kidneys from long-term damage.
Measuring Aldosterone for Health InsightsÂ
Measuring aldosterone can identify the cause of high blood pressure and guide treatment. Normal adult aldosterone levels range from 3.1 to 35.4 ng/dL, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Primary aldosteronism, marked by high aldosterone and low renin activity, is a major contributor to secondary hypertension. Accurate aldosterone measurement is crucial for diagnosing and managing conditions like primary aldosteronism, which can lead to cardiovascular complications if untreated.
Broader Implications of Aldosterone Beyond Blood PressureÂ
Beyond blood pressure, aldosterone plays a role in kidney disease, heart failure, and diabetic neuropathy. High aldosterone levels can cause inflammation and fibrosis in the heart and kidneys, worsening chronic diseases. Ongoing research is investigating the potential benefits of aldosterone inhibitors for treating a wide range of conditions.
Tools for Measuring Aldosterone: DetectX® KitsÂ
The DetectX® Aldosterone ELISA (K052-H1/H5) and Chemiluminescent ELISA Kits (K052-C1/C5) measure aldosterone in extracted serum, plasma, urine, and tissue samples. These kits have run times of 2.5 to 16 hours and use stable liquid reagents stored at 4°C. Their precision makes them valuable in both clinical and research applications.
Versatility and Precision of Arbor Assays’ KitsÂ
The kits detect aldosterone concentrations as low as 4.97 pg/mL (K052-H) and 2.06 pg/mL (K052-C). They generate accurate, reproducible results crucial for high-stakes research. By using a standard curve, the kits ensure precise aldosterone measurement, aiding in the management of conditions related to aldosterone imbalances.
Managing Aldosterone for Better Health
Understanding aldosterone is key to maintaining cardiovascular and renal health. With tools like the DetectX® Aldosterone ELISA Kits, researchers and clinicians can accurately measure aldosterone and improve patient care. This proactive approach helps prevent complications linked to high aldosterone levels. Â
Standard Curves:
Featured Products
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Aldosterone ELISA Kits
$440.00 – $1,756.00The DetectX® Aldosterone ELISA Kits measure Aldosterone present in extracted serum and plasma, or in urine, saliva, extracted dried fecal samples, and tissue culture media samples.
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Aldosterone Chemiluminescent ELISA Kits
$460.00 – $1,837.00The DetectX® Aldosterone Chemiluminescent ELISA Kits quantitatively measure Aldosterone present in extracted serum and plasma, or in urine, saliva, extracted dried fecal samples, and tissue culture media samples