Effects of Acrolein on Adrenal Glands

Abstract

Aldosterone and cortisol, two major hormones secreted from adrenal glands, are vital to life by maintaining electrolyte, body fluid and energy homeostasis in human. Both of hormones are regulated precisely. Acrolein, the well-known cytotoxic agent released during the incomplete combustion. It abounds in the smoke of cigarette and in enclosed fires. Previous studies have demonstrated that smoking has the adverse effects on cardiovascular, nerve and other system. In particular, the pathogenic functions of tobacco inhalation in cardiovascular disorders as well as alters plasma electrolyte levels have been well documented. It is thus important to evaluate cellular/molecular mechanisms of smoking that change these responses. In a recent paper published in Steroids , we demonstrated that the major chemical in cigarette, acrolein, has the abilities to enhance aldosterone secretion and decrease corticosterone secretion. These effects may associate with the progression of cardiovascular and other diseases.