Figure 3.Mechanism of aldosterone action on sodium reabsorption at the distal convoluted tubule of the nephron. Aldosterone binds to the MR, which is located in the cytoplasm in complex with heat shock proteins 90, 70 and 50. After binding, the receptor-ligand complex translocates into the nucleus, binds to hormone-responsive elements (HRE) of target genes where it modulates their transcription rate. Amiloride-sensitive sodium channel (ENaC) subunits or other related proteins may be targets of such regulation. (From Arai K, Chrousos GP. Glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid resistance: clinical and molecular aspects. In: Vinson GP, Anderson DC eds. Adrenal Glands, Vascular System and Hypertension. Bristol, UK: Journal of Endocrinology Limited, pp211-226, 1996, with modification and permission)