Adrenal Glands

Question 1

Describe the adrenal system

Answer 1

Question 2

Describe the Adrenal Glands

Answer 2

Question 3

The adrenal cortex consists of 3 layers:

Answer 3

• zona glomerulosa (outer)
• zona fasciculata (middle and largest)
• zona reticularis (inner)

Question 4

Which portion of the adrenal cortex produces a number of different adrenocortical hormones?

Answer 4

The zona reticularis (the innermost zone)

Produces a number of different adrenocortical hormones (steroid derived)

1. Mineralocorticoids (mainly aldosterone, influence mineral (electrolyte) balance
2. Glucocorticoids (primarily cortisol, influence nutrient metabolism and stress)
3. Sex hormones identical or similar to those produced by the gonads (dehydroepiandrosterone)

Question 5

What is the function of the Adrenal medulla?

Answer 5

• Essentially a modified sympathetic ganglion
• Receives preganglionic sympathetic neuronal innervation
• These synapse with modified post-ganglionic neurones that lack axons and function as endocrine cells, called chromaffin cells

Question 6

The Adrenal Medulla Secretes catecholamines

Question 7

What are the actions of catecholamines?

Answer 7

• via adrenergic (adrenoceptor) system
• Similar to peripheral sympathetic nervous system
• Emergency ‘Fight or flight’ responses

Question 8

Draw the Steroidogenic Pathway

Answer 8