Which statement does NOT accurately describe the juxtaglomerular complex?

The juxtaglomerular complex is a critical structure in the kidneys that plays a vital role in regulating blood pressure and kidney function. One of its key components, the macula densa, is responsible for sensing sodium chloride concentrations in the filtrate flowing through the distal convoluted tubule. This sensing function is crucial for maintaining proper electrolyte balance and blood pressure homeostasis.

The correct statement among the options is that the macula densa cells do not produce aldosterone. Instead, aldosterone is produced by the adrenal cortex in response to signals that may include those regulated by the juxtaglomerular complex, such as angiotensin II, which is generated in response to renin released from the juxtaglomerular cells. While the juxtaglomerular complex is intimately involved in the mechanisms that can influence aldosterone secretion, the production of aldosterone itself is not a function of the macula densa cells.

This understanding highlights the specific role of each component in the juxtaglomerular complex, emphasizing that the macula densa's primary function is monitoring sodium levels and communicating with other parts of the complex rather than producing hormones directly.