Adrenoglomerulotropin

Abstract

The secretion of aldosterone by the zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex is controlled by a system which is not completely understood. Volume receptors are of importance although other receptors may be involved. The midbrain contains elements which influence the secretion of the steroid since lesions in this area of the brain stem reduce aldosterone output. A lipid factor, adrenoglomerulotropin, obtained from pineal extracts, selectively stimulates secretion of aldosterone; but a second factor, also from the pineal gland inhibits the output of aldosterone as well as of cortisol. It is suggested that the control of the secretion of aldosterone may be by an excitatory-inhibitory system involving the interplay of pituitary corticotropin, adrenoglomerulotropin and an anticorticotropin of pineal origin.