Growth & Death
Molecules and Signalling
Protein Synthesis
ATP Production
Electrolytes
Cell Structures
Tissue Structure
Cardiac Output
Cardiac Cycle
Circulation
Special Circulations
Pulmonary Ventilation
Gas Exchange
Regulation of Respiration
Mouth
Stomach
Small Intestine
Large Intestine
Liver
Vitamins
Other
Nephron
Micturition
Regulation
Embryology
Hormones and Regulation
Fetal Physiology
Pregnancy
Components
Synapses
Sensory System
Motor System
Ocular Physiology
Thyroid and Parathyroid Glands
Adrenal Glands
The Pancreas
Hypothalamus and Pituitary
Cells of the Immune System
Innate Immune System
Adaptive Immune System
Immune Responses
Infections
Haematology
The adrenal glands are paired endocrine glands found on top of the kidneys. They are composed of an inner medulla and an outer cortex, which is in turn divided into three zones.
The adrenal medulla is the central part of the adrenal gland. The secretory cells of the medulla are known as chromaffin cells and they are responsible for producing adrenaline and noradrenaline.
The zona glomerulosa is the outermost layer of the adrenal cortex, and is responsible for secreting the mineralocorticoid hormones, such as aldosterone, which are important in regulating fluid balance.
The middle layer of the adrenal cortex is the zona fasciculata. It is the thickest of the three Zonas, measuring approximately 0.9mm and making up 50% of the mass of the Adrenal Gland. The cells of the zona fasciculata secrete the glucocorticoids cortisol and corticosterone, which regulate carbohydrate metabolism in the body.
The zona reticularis is the innermost layer of the adrenal cortex. It is responsible for production and secretion of androgens – these are responsible for the normal development of sexual characteristics during puberty.
by Charlotte Smith
by Farhana Patel
by Jess Speller
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