Functional morphology of the adrenocortical glomerular zone by incomplete ligation of bilateral ureters of rats. An experimental model for secondary aldosteronism.

We studied the adrenal cortex, particularly the glomerular zone of an experimental model for secondary aldosteronism produced in rats by incomplete ligation of both ureters. The experimental animals developed characteristic manifestations of the disease such as ascites and high serum potassium, PRA, and aldosterone content in the adrenal tissue. Microscopically, the width of the glomerular zone was markedly increased and this was related to hypertrophy of the cells of the glomerular zone. Lipid droplets in these cells were decreased. The enzymic activity of 3 beta-HSD showed a moderate increase in the transitional zone and a slight increase in the glomerular zone. Ultrastructurally, well-developed mitochondria and SER were seen in swollen cytoplasm and numerous microvillous projections were noted in the plasma membrane. These results suggest that the adrenal cortical cells in the glomerular zone are stimulated by high concentrations of serum potassium and renin-angiotensin.