Primary aldosteronism as an independent factor of kidney damage. Potential therapeutic strategies and research prospects

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is the most common curable cause of secondary hypertension and an independent risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD). This review focuses on the pathophysiological mechanisms of aldosterone-induced renal injury, including mineralocorticoid receptor activation, nongenomic signaling via GPER, oxidative stress, and the upregulation of profibrotic and inflammatory mediators such as TGF-β1, NF-κB, and NLRP3. Chronic aldosterone excess leads to podocyte injury, microvascular dysfunction, and interstitial fibrosis, resulting in decreased glomerular filtration rate and CKD progression.

Genetic mutations (KCNJ5, ATP1A1, CACNA1D) and tubular stress biomarkers (L-FABP, KIM-1, microalbuminuria) are discussed as key factors of early nephron injury. Comparative clinical data show that adrenalectomy provides superior nephroprotection compared to pharmacological blockade, while long-term therapy with mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists requires careful renal monitoring. Emerging therapeutic strategies, including nonsteroidal MR antagonists and aldosterone synthase inhibitors (baxdrostat), offer new prospects for targeted nephroprotection.

By integrating molecular and clinical evidence, this review highlights the central role of aldosterone in renal pathology and emphasizes early detection and personalized treatment approaches to prevent CKD progression in patients with PA.

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