Question

What is adrenal cortex and adrenal medala?

Answer 1

• Adrenal Cortex

The adrenal cortex is the outermost layer of the adrenal gland which is devoted to the production of aldosterone, cortisol, and androgens hormones.There are three layers of cortex called zones which can be examined and easily differentiated under a microscope. The zona glomerulosa, the zona fasciculata, and the zona reticularis are the layer of the zones which has a different function.

The Glucocorticoids released by the adrenal cortex include:

1. Hydrocortisone: It is commonly known as cortisol or a steroid hormone. It is involved in regulating body functions like the conversion of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates to energy and also plays a vital role in other metabolic processes.
2. Corticosterone: This hormone works with hydrocortisone to control the immune response and prevents the cause of inflammatory reactions.

• Adrenal Medulla

The last and innermost part of the adrenal gland is the medulla.The chromaffin cells of the medulla are the body’s main source of the Epinephrine and Norepinephrine. The hormones secreted by the adrenal medulla are:

1. Epinephrine: This hormone rapidly responds to stress by increasing the heart rate and fastening the blood supply to the muscles and brain.
2. Norepinephrine: This hormone works with epinephrine in reacting to stress