Papers of the Week

Aldosterone is believed to be synthesized exclusively in the adrenal gland through the processing enzyme aldosterone synthaseMineralocorticoid receptors are predominantly expressed in peripheral nociceptive neurons whose activation leads to increased neuronal excitability and mechanical sensitivity WHAT THIS ARTICLE TELLS US THAT IS NEW: Extra-adrenal production of aldosterone by aldosterone synthase within peripheral sensory neurons contributes to ongoing mechanical hypersensitivity via intrinsic activation of neuronal mineralocorticoid receptorsIntrathecally-applied aldosterone synthase inhibitor reduced aldosterone content in peripheral sensory neurons and subsequently attenuated enhanced mechanical hypersensitivity resulting from local inflammation BACKGROUND:: Recent emerging evidence suggests that extra-adrenal synthesis of aldosterone occurs (e.g., within the failing heart and in certain brain areas). In this study, the authors investigated evidence for a local endogenous aldosterone production through its key processing enzyme aldosterone synthase within peripheral nociceptive neurons.