MINERALOCORTICOID RECEPTOR Meaning and
Definition
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The mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) is a type of nuclear receptor protein found primarily in the cells of the kidney, specifically in the distal tubules and collecting ducts. It is a member of the steroid hormone receptor superfamily and is activated by a class of hormones known as mineralocorticoids, with aldosterone being the primary endogenous ligand for this receptor.
The MR plays a critical role in regulating the balance of water and electrolytes in the body, particularly sodium and potassium levels. When activated by aldosterone, the MR promotes the reabsorption of sodium ions and the excretion of potassium ions in the distal tubules and collecting ducts of the kidney. This action helps to maintain blood pressure, osmolarity, and fluid balance.
In addition to its role in the kidney, the mineralocorticoid receptor is also found in other tissues such as the colon, sweat glands, and salivary glands, where it regulates sodium and water reabsorption.
Dysfunction of the mineralocorticoid receptor can lead to disorders such as primary aldosteronism, a condition characterized by excessive aldosterone production, and hypoaldosteronism, a deficiency in aldosterone secretion. These conditions can result in imbalances in fluid and electrolyte levels, leading to symptoms such as high blood pressure, low potassium levels, and fluid retention.
Overall, the mineralocorticoid receptor is a crucial component of the body's regulatory system for maintaining fluid and electrolyte homeostasis, and its proper functioning is essential for overall physiological balance and health.
Common Misspellings for MINERALOCORTICOID RECEPTOR
- nineralocorticoid receptor
- kineralocorticoid receptor
- jineralocorticoid receptor
- muneralocorticoid receptor
- mjneralocorticoid receptor
- mkneralocorticoid receptor
- moneralocorticoid receptor
- m9neralocorticoid receptor
- m8neralocorticoid receptor
- miberalocorticoid receptor
- mimeralocorticoid receptor
- mijeralocorticoid receptor
- miheralocorticoid receptor
- minwralocorticoid receptor
- minsralocorticoid receptor
- mindralocorticoid receptor
- minrralocorticoid receptor
- min4ralocorticoid receptor
- min3ralocorticoid receptor
- mineealocorticoid receptor
Etymology of MINERALOCORTICOID RECEPTOR
The term "mineralocorticoid receptor" is composed of two main elements: "mineralocorticoid" and "receptor".
1. Mineralocorticoid: The word "mineralocorticoid" combines the terms "mineral", derived from the Latin word "mineralis" meaning "pertaining to minerals" or "pertaining to mine", and "corticoid", which refers to steroids originating from the adrenal cortex. Mineralocorticoids are a class of steroid hormones produced by the adrenal gland, particularly the outer layer known as the zona glomerulosa. The prefix "mineralo-" refers to their role in mineral homeostasis, specifically in the regulation of electrolyte balance, including sodium and potassium, in the body.
2. Receptor: The term "receptor" originates from the Latin verb "recipere", which means "to receive".
