Figure. 1.

Diagram represents signaling of the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) in vascular smooth muscle cells. MR activation is stimulated by endothelial damage, AngII signaling and aldosterone binding leading to signaling through genomic and non-genomic mechanisms. This signaling causes enhanced vascular contraction, inflammation and remodeling resulting in hypertension, atherosclerosis and vascular aging. ROS, reactive oxygen species; NO, nitric oxide; GC, guanylyl cyclase; GR, glucocorticoid receptor; ALP, alkaline phosphate; BMP2, bone morphogenic protein 2; CTGF, connective tissue growth factor; PGF, placental growth factor; VEGFR, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor; MT1, metalothionine 1