Cardiovascular effects of aldosterone and post-acute myocardial infarction pathophysiology

Am J Cardiol. 2006 May 22;97(10A):4F-12F. doi: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2006.03.004. Epub 2006 Apr 5.

Abstract

Aldosterone is an important mediator of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) that plays a major role in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease as well as regulation of extracellular fluid volume and potassium. In experimental models, aldosterone has been shown to promote endothelial dysfunction; induce vascular inflammation, myocardial ischemia, and necrosis; increase collagen synthesis in cardiac fibroblasts; contribute to plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 regulation; decrease baroreceptor sensitivity and reflex function; block myocardial uptake of norepinephrine; increase oxidative stress; and stimulate cardiomyocyte apoptosis. A review of animal and human studies with aldosterone blockers reveals improvement in, and in some cases complete reversal of, these pathophysiologic effects of aldosterone on the cardiovascular system.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aldosterone / physiology*
  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists / therapeutic use
  • Myocardial Infarction / drug therapy
  • Myocardial Infarction / physiopathology*
  • Ventricular Remodeling / drug effects
  • Ventricular Remodeling / physiology*

Substances

  • Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists
  • Aldosterone