Abstract
The syndrome of apparent mineralocorticoid excess (ME) is an inherited form of human hypertension thought to result from a deficiency of 11β–hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11βHSD). This enzyme normally converts cortisol to inactive cortisone and is postulated to thus confer specificity for aldosterone upon the mineralocorticoid receptor. We have analysed the gene encoding the kidney isozyme of 11βHSD and found mutations on both alleles in nine of 11 AME patients (eight of nine kindreds). These mutations markedly affect enzymatic activity. They thus permit cortisol to occupy the renal mineralocorticoid receptor and thereby cause sodium retention and hypertension.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 394-399 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Nature genetics |
Volume | 10 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Aug 1995 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Genetics