What is the chemical nature of aldosterone?

Options

A. Fatty acid
B. Peptide
C. Amine
D. Steroid

Answer

To determine the chemical nature of aldosterone, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Identify Aldosterone
Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, specifically from the zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex.

**Hint:** Remember that hormones can be classified based on their chemical structure.

### Step 2: Classify Hormones
Hormones can be categorized into different classes based on their chemical nature:
- Fatty acids (e.g., prostaglandins)
- Peptides (e.g., adrenocorticotropic hormone)
- Amines (e.g., adrenaline)
- Steroids (e.g., cortisol, aldosterone)

**Hint:** Think about the structure of aldosterone and how it compares to these categories.

### Step 3: Analyze Aldosterone's Structure
Aldosterone is derived from cholesterol, which is a lipid. This indicates that it belongs to the steroid class of hormones.

**Hint:** Consider the origin of aldosterone and its relationship with cholesterol.

### Step 4: Confirm Aldosterone's Function
Aldosterone plays a crucial role in regulating salt and water balance in the body, primarily by promoting sodium conservation in the kidneys, salivary glands, sweat glands, and colon.

**Hint:** Understanding the function of a hormone can sometimes provide clues about its chemical nature.

### Conclusion
Based on the classification and structural analysis, the chemical nature of aldosterone is confirmed to be a steroid hormone.

**Final Answer:** Aldosterone is a steroid.