What is the effect of Aldosterone on renal function?

Aldosterone primarily functions to regulate blood pressure and fluid balance by affecting renal function, specifically in the nephron of the kidneys. Its primary effect is to increase sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule and collecting ducts of the nephron. When aldosterone is released, it promotes the activity of sodium channels and sodium-potassium pumps in the renal tubules, allowing more sodium to be reabsorbed into the bloodstream. This reabsorption leads to increased water retention, as water follows sodium osmotically, thereby helping to increase blood volume and blood pressure.

The physiological role of aldosterone is vital in maintaining electrolyte balance and cardiovascular health, especially in situations where fluid balance is disturbed, such as in cases of dehydration or excessive diuretic use. This action of aldosterone is fundamental in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which responds to low blood pressure or low sodium levels in the body.

Other options, such as potassium reabsorption, glucose metabolism, or calcium excretion, do not accurately reflect the primary function of aldosterone. In fact, aldosterone is known to promote potassium excretion rather than reabsorption, which further emphasizes its role in sodium-potassium homeostasis. Therefore