Adrenal cortex

Definition

The adrenal cortex is the outer portion of the adrenal glands, which are small glands located on top of each kidney. This region plays a crucial role in producing important hormones, including cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens. The adrenal cortex is vital for regulating metabolism, blood pressure, and the body's response to stress.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The adrenal cortex is divided into three zones: the zona glomerulosa (produces aldosterone), zona fasciculata (produces cortisol), and zona reticularis (produces androgens).
2. Cortisol secretion increases in response to stress and low blood glucose levels, playing a key role in maintaining homeostasis.
3. Aldosterone is crucial for regulating electrolyte balance and fluid volume, directly influencing blood pressure.
4. Disorders of the adrenal cortex can lead to conditions like Addison's disease (insufficient hormone production) or Cushing's syndrome (excess cortisol).
5. The adrenal cortex responds to signals from the pituitary gland, particularly adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which stimulates hormone production.

Review Questions

• How does the adrenal cortex contribute to maintaining homeostasis in the body?
  • The adrenal cortex plays a significant role in maintaining homeostasis by producing hormones like cortisol and aldosterone. Cortisol helps regulate metabolism and manages the body's response to stress, ensuring that energy supplies are adequate during challenging situations. Aldosterone regulates electrolyte balance and fluid volume, which are crucial for maintaining stable blood pressure. Together, these hormones ensure that the body can adapt effectively to internal and external changes.
• Discuss the differences between the hormonal functions of the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla.
  • The adrenal cortex primarily produces steroid hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens, which are involved in long-term stress responses, metabolism, and electrolyte balance. In contrast, the adrenal medulla produces catecholamines like adrenaline and norepinephrine, which trigger immediate responses during acute stress situations. While both regions are essential for managing stress, the hormones produced by the cortex are more focused on sustained physiological changes, while those from the medulla prepare the body for rapid reactions.
• Evaluate how dysfunction of the adrenal cortex can impact overall health and well-being.
  • Dysfunction of the adrenal cortex can lead to significant health issues such as Addison's disease or Cushing's syndrome. Addison's disease results in insufficient hormone production, causing symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure. On the other hand, Cushing's syndrome involves excessive cortisol production, leading to weight gain, hypertension, and increased risk of infections. Both conditions highlight how crucial the adrenal cortex is for hormone balance and overall health. If not properly managed, these disorders can lead to serious complications affecting various bodily systems.

Related terms

Cortisol: A steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that helps regulate metabolism, reduce inflammation, and manage stress.

Aldosterone: A hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex that helps regulate sodium and potassium levels in the blood, impacting blood pressure.

Adrenal Medulla: The inner part of the adrenal glands that produces catecholamines like adrenaline and norepinephrine, which are involved in the body's fight-or-flight response.