Question

What is secreted by the adrenal cortex?

Answer 1

Adrenal cortex:

1. The adrenal cortex is the gland's outermost and largest component.
2. It is associated with the production of hormones necessary for life.
3. The adrenal medulla is located inside the cortex and is also related to the reproduction of hormones.

Layers of the adrenal cortex:

1. Zona glomerulosa: It is the outermost layer of the adrenal cortex and it is the site for the synthesis of mineralocorticoids such as aldosterone that helps in the regulation of blood pressure.
2. Zona fasciculata: It is the layer between glomerulosa and reticularis. It is responsible for the synthesis of glucocorticoids such as cortisol and corticosterone.
3. Zona reticularis: It is the innermost layer of the adrenal cortex and is primarily responsible for the synthesis of androgens.

Hormones produced by the adrenal cortex:

Mineralocorticoids:

1. It is a group of hormones produced by the zona glomerulosa.
2. Aldosterone is the main hormone produced by it.
3. It is associated with the regulation of distal convoluted tubule and collecting ducts, which results in increased sodium absorption, and higher potassium, and hydrogen ion excretion.

Glucocorticoids:

1. Glucocorticoids are produced in the zona fasciculata.
2. Cortisol is the major glucocorticoid produced by the adrenal cortex.
3. Cortisol affects metabolism by promoting fat breakdown, amino acid release from the body, and gluconeogenesis.

Androgens:

1. Androgens are primarily produced in the innermost layer of zona reticularis.
2. Testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, androstenedione, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) are the chief androgens.
3. Testosterone is the major sex hormone in males, and it is responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics.
4. Dihydrotestosterone is a more potent version of testosterone that binds readily to the androgen receptors.
5. Androstenedione is a less potent androgen that serves as a precursor for the production of estrone and testosterone.
6. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an endogenous steroid found in high concentrations in the circulatory system of humans. Both males and females use it as a precursor in the production of sex hormones.