Ion exchange at the distal convoluted tubule is affected by the adrenal gland hormone called .

The ion exchange at the distal convoluted tubule is affected by the adrenal gland hormone called Aldosterone.

Here's a step-by-step explanation:

1. The adrenal glands, located on top of the kidneys, produce a variety of hormones. One of these hormones is Aldosterone, which is part of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.

2. Aldosterone is released into the bloodstream when the body detects low blood volume or low sodium levels.

3. Once in the bloodstream, Aldosterone travels to the kidneys, where it acts on the cells of the distal convoluted tubule and the collecting duct.

4. Aldosterone increases the reabsorption of sodium ions back into the bloodstream from the urine. It does this by increasing the number and activity of sodium-potassium pumps in the cells of the distal convoluted tubule and collecting duct.

5. As sodium ions are reabsorbed, water follows by osmosis, which helps to increase blood volume and blood pressure. At the same time, Aldosterone promotes the excretion of potassium ions into the urine.

6. Therefore, the adrenal gland hormone that affects ion exchange at the distal convoluted tubule is Aldosterone.