Question

Write the location of adrenal gland. What are the hormones secreted by it? List down the two important functions of these hormones.

Answer 1

Adrenal Gland:

1. The adrenal glands are pyramid-shaped glands present on top of each kidney in the abdominal region.
2. These glands are divided into the cortical and the medullary regions that release different hormones.

Hormones released by Adrenal Cortex:

Mineralocorticoids:

1. The primary mineralocorticoid released by the adrenal cortex is aldosterone.
2. It regulates the sodium and potassium concentration in the blood and the extracellular fluid present outside the cell.
3. It also regulates blood pressure.

Glucocorticoids:

1. The primary glucocorticoids are cortisol and corticosterone.
2. These are involved in the regulation of carbohydrates, lipids and protein metabolism.
3. Cortisol also contains anti-inflammatory properties.

Sex hormones:

1. The adrenal gland release androgen (sex hormones) in males and estrogen in females.
2. These hormones help in the development of sexual organs in males and females.
3. The sex hormones also promote the development of secondary sexual characters in them.

Hormone released by Adrenal Medulla:

Adrenaline:

1. The adrenaline hormone prepares the body for the fight, flight, or fright response during stressful conditions.
2. It stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, causing an increase in the heart rate, breathing rate, blood pressure, etc.