Remuzzi G et al. - Experimental evidence indicates that aldosterone, besides being a regulator of extracellular fluid volume and sodium and potassium balance, directly contributes to accelerate renal damage by sustaining cell growth, inflammation, and fibrosis. This occurs through production of growth factors and reactive oxygen species as well as inhibition of extracellular matrix degradation. Attenuation of growth-promoting and fibroproliferative effect of aldosterone may contribute to protection against progressive renal injury.