Amplification of the action of subthreshold doses of aldosterone by 19-Hydroxyandrost-4-ene-3, 17-dione

Abstract

Mineralocorticoid activity of 19-hydroxyandrost-4-ene-3, 17-dione was evaluated by mineralocorticoid bioassays using adrenalectomized rats. 19-Hydroxyandrost-4-ene-3, 17-dione was devoid of mineralocorticoid activity. However, it caused a significant decrease in urinary Na K ratio and Na excretion and a significant increase in urinary K excretion when it was administered simultaneously with subthreshold doses of aldosterone. The results demonstrate that 19-hydroxyandrost-4-ene-3, 17-dione amplified the action of subthreshold doses of aldosterone. © 1979.