Which one of the following hormones is required for the retention of sodium ions by the human body ?

Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid hormone produced by the zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex [t3]. Its primary physiological role is to maintain electrolyte balance and blood pressure by promoting the retention of sodium ions (Na+) and the excretion of potassium ions (K+) in the kidneys [t1][t7]. It achieves this by targeting distal tubular cells to influence epithelial sodium channels and sodium-potassium exchange pumps [t1][t8]. In contrast, Parathormone (PTH) regulates calcium and phosphate levels [t2][t5], Somatotropin (growth hormone) stimulates growth and development [c1][t7], and Thyroxin (T4) primarily regulates the basal metabolic rate and the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats [c1][t5]. Therefore, aldosterone is the specific hormone required for the retention of sodium ions in the human body to ensure homeostasis [t6].

Sources

1. [1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/adrenal-cortex-function
2. [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470339/
3. [3] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0270929505001907
4. [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482128/
5. [5] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 6: Control and Coordination > Do You Know? > p. 110
6. [6] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6761896/