Targeting the aldosterone pathway in cardiovascular disease.

Accumulated evidence has demonstrated that aldosterone is a key player in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular (CV) disease. Multiple clinical trials have documented that intervention in the aldosterone pathway can reduce blood pressure and lower albuminuria and improve outcome in patients with heart failure or myocardial infarction. Recent studies have unraveled details about the role of aldosterone at the cellular level in CV disease. The relative importance of glucocorticoids and aldosterone in terms of mineralocorticoid receptor activation is currently being debated. Also, studies are addressing which aldosterone modulator to use, which timing of treatment to aim for, and in which population to intervene. This review provides an overview of recent developments in the understanding of the role of aldosterone in CV disease, with particular reference to mechanisms and potential targets of intervention. Finally, ongoing or desirable clinical trials in the field are highlighted. The review is partly based on discussions between basic scientists and clinical trialists at the Cardiovascular Clinical Trials Forum 2009 and subsequently updated to encompass the most recent developments.