Question
upstudy study bank question image url

Aldosterone regulates: blood calcium ion levels. blood iodide ion levels. extracellular sodium and potassium ion levels. blood glucose levels.

Ask by Pollard Greene. in the United States
Jan 25,2025

Real Tutor Solution

Tutor-Verified Answer

Answer

Aldosterone regulates extracellular sodium and potassium ion levels.

Solution

Aldosterone is a **mineralocorticoid hormone** produced by the **adrenal cortex**. Its primary role involves the regulation of **electrolyte balance** and **blood pressure**. Here's how it interacts with the options you've provided: 1. **Blood Calcium Ion Levels:** - **Incorrect.** Regulation of calcium levels is primarily managed by hormones such as **parathyroid hormone (PTH)** and **calcitonin**, not aldosterone. 2. **Blood Iodide Ion Levels:** - **Incorrect.** Iodide ion levels are regulated mainly in relation to **thyroid hormone synthesis** and iodine intake, not directly by aldosterone. 3. **Extracellular Sodium and Potassium Ion Levels:** - **Correct.** Aldosterone **increases the reabsorption of sodium (Na⁺)** and the **excretion of potassium (K⁺)** in the kidneys. This action helps maintain **blood volume**, **blood pressure**, and **electrolyte balance**. 4. **Blood Glucose Levels:** - **Incorrect.** Blood glucose is primarily regulated by **insulin** and **glucagon**, not aldosterone. **Conclusion:** **Aldosterone regulates **extracellular sodium and potassium ion levels**.

Reviewed and approved by the UpStudy tutoring team

error msg
Explain
Simplify this solution

Beyond the Answer

Aldosterone is a key hormone produced by the adrenal glands that plays a significant role in regulating extracellular sodium and potassium ion levels. It acts primarily on the kidneys, promoting sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion in order to maintain blood pressure and fluid balance. This means that when aldosterone levels rise, you’re likely to retain more sodium and lose potassium! In real-world scenarios, understanding how aldosterone functions is crucial for managing conditions such as hypertension and heart disease. For instance, medications called aldosterone antagonists are often prescribed to manage high blood pressure by blocking the effects of this hormone, helping to balance sodium and potassium levels while reducing fluid retention and pressure on blood vessels. This is vital for maintaining overall cardiovascular health!

Try Premium now!
Try Premium and ask Thoth AI unlimited math questions now!
Maybe later Go Premium
Study can be a real struggle
Why not UpStudy it?
Select your plan below
Premium

You can enjoy

Start now
  • Step-by-step explanations
  • 24/7 expert live tutors
  • Unlimited number of questions
  • No interruptions
  • Full access to Answer and Solution
  • Full Access to PDF Chat, UpStudy Chat, Browsing Chat
Basic

Totally free but limited

  • Limited Solution
Welcome to UpStudy!
Please sign in to continue the Thoth AI Chat journey
Continue with Email
Or continue with
By clicking “Sign in”, you agree to our Terms of Use & Privacy Policy