HSD11B2 and hypertensive disorder: This renal-centric view of hypertension is supported by our studies in Hsd11b2 null mice, which are hypertensive on a basal salt intake;10 renal sodium excretion is reduced, and sodium transport pathways in the aldosterone-sensitive distal nephron are inappropriately activated.11,12 Similarly, Hsd11b2 heterozygote null mice, which have normal basal blood pressure, cannot efficiently excrete a sodium load and are salt sensitive.13,14