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27
Jan
Mineralocorticoid Receptor (MR): Structure, Distribution, Signaling Pathways, and Disease Associations
Explore the critical role of MR in physiological homeostasis, electrolyte balance, and cardiovascular health.
The mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) is a critical member of the nuclear receptor superfamily. As the primary receptor for aldosterone, MR integrates hormonal signals to control electrolyte balance, blood pressure, and inflammatory responses.
Figure 1: Mechanism of Mineralocorticoid Receptor Activation
I. Structural Characteristics
(1) Domain Architecture
- NTD (N-terminal domain): Central for transcriptional regulation and co-regulator interaction.
- DBD (DNA-binding domain): Features a zinc finger motif for precise HRE recognition.
- LBD (Ligand-binding domain): Responsible for ligand recognition and receptor activation.
II. Tissue Distribution & Significance
| Target Tissue | Key Physiological Function |
|---|---|
| Kidney | Regulates ENaC, promotes sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion. |
| Heart/Vasculature | Influences cardiac remodeling, vascular tone, and contraction. |
| Colon & Glands | Assists in systemic electrolyte and fluid homeostasis. |
III. MR Signaling Pathways
Classical (Genomic)
Translocation of the MR–ligand complex into the nucleus to bind HREs, triggering long-term gene transcription like ENaC.
Non-Classical (Non-Genomic)
Rapid signaling through membrane-associated proteins, activating cascades like MAPK for acute vascular responses.
V. Disease Associations
Hypertension: Overactivation leads to sodium retention and blood volume expansion.
Heart Failure: Chronic MR activation promotes hypertrophy and ventricular remodeling.
Kidney Disease: Contributes to glomerulosclerosis and interstitial fibrosis.
Biofargo team
