Question 1

What hormones does the adrenal cortex produce and what are their main functions?

Accepted Answer

The adrenal cortex produces over two dozen corticosteroid hormones across three zones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids like aldosterone, regulating electrolyte balance. The zona fasciculata produces glucocorticoids such as cortisol and corticosterone, which accelerate glucose synthesis in the liver and promote glycogen formation in muscle and adipose tissue. The zona fasciculata also produces smaller amounts of androgens.

Question 2

How do glucocorticoids affect glucose metabolism in different tissues?

Accepted Answer

Glucocorticoids speed up glucose synthesis in the liver while promoting glycogen formation in muscle and adipose tissue. This dual action ensures glucose availability during stress or fasting. The name glucocorticoids reflects their primary impact on glucose metabolism, making them essential for maintaining blood glucose levels and supporting energy production across the body.

Question 3

What role do adrenal androgens play in adolescents and adult women?

Accepted Answer

In adolescents, adrenal androgens stimulate the development of pubic hair during puberty. In adult women, these hormones promote muscle mass development, support blood cell formation, and enhance sex drive. Although produced in smaller amounts compared to other adrenal hormones, androgens contribute significantly to secondary sexual characteristics and metabolic functions throughout life.

Question 4

How do catecholamines prepare the body for stress?

Accepted Answer

The adrenal medulla contains chromaffin cells that secrete catecholamines—epinephrine and norepinephrine—in response to stress. These hormones promote strength and endurance in skeletal muscles and break down stored fat and glycogen in adipose tissue and the liver. Continuously packaged in vesicles and released at low levels through exocytosis, catecholamines provide rapid energy mobilization during heightened demands.

Question 5

What is the difference between epinephrine and norepinephrine in the adrenal medulla?

Accepted Answer

The adrenal medulla contains two distinct types of chromaffin cells: one produces epinephrine and the other produces norepinephrine. Both catecholamines are continuously stored in vesicles and released at low levels by exocytosis in response to stress. While structurally similar, these hormones work together to enhance muscle performance and mobilize energy reserves during the body's stress response.

Question 6

How does aldosterone maintain electrolyte balance in body fluids?

Accepted Answer

Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid produced by the zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex. It regulates the electrolyte composition of body fluids by controlling sodium and potassium levels. This hormone is crucial for maintaining proper fluid balance, blood pressure, and cellular function throughout the body.

Question 7

How are adrenal hormones continuously released and what triggers their secretion?

Accepted Answer

Catecholamines from the adrenal medulla are continuously packaged in vesicles and released at low baseline levels through exocytosis. Stress triggers increased secretion of these hormones. Corticosteroids from the adrenal cortex are also regulated by stress signals and maintain steady-state levels to support electrolyte balance and glucose metabolism throughout the day.

Hormones of the Adrenal Glands

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