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Aldosterone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. It is secreted from the adrenal cortex, which is the outer portion of the adrenal glands located on top of the kidneys. The primary function of aldosterone is to promote sodium retention and potassium excretion by the kidneys. This action helps to maintain blood volume and blood pressure. The secretion of aldosterone is part of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which responds to low blood pressure or low blood sodium levels.

The adrenal cortex specifically produces several steroid hormones, including aldosterone, cortisol, and androgens, making it distinct from other organs like the liver and pancreas, which have different endocrine functions. The liver primarily produces proteins and metabolic substances, while the pancreas is involved in producing insulin and digestive enzymes. The kidneys play a role in the excretion of aldosterone but do not produce it. Therefore, the correct identification of aldosterone’s source as the adrenal cortex is critical for understanding its function in the body's homeostasis mechanisms.