Renal 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity: effects of age, sex and altered hormonal status |
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| Authors: | R E Smith J W Funder |
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| Institution: | Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Victoria, Australia. |
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| Abstract: | The enzyme 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, by converting cortisol and corticosterone to their receptor-inactive 11-keto metabolites cortisone and 11-dehydrocorticosterone, appears crucial to the aldosterone-selectivity of renal mineralocorticoid receptors. Levels of enzyme activity in the rat kidney, measured by conversion of cortisol to cortisone, are unaltered by changes in adrenal or thyroid status, or by castration in either sex; in contrast, oestrogen administration increases enzyme activity in male rats. |
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