Effects of Cortisol Flashcards
Where are the adrenal glands located?
On top of each kidney; they are retroperitoneal organs.
What are the two main parts of the adrenal gland?
The adrenal cortex (outer) and adrenal medulla (inner).
What are the three zones of the adrenal cortex and their primary hormones?
Zona glomerulosa: aldosterone
Zona fasciculata: cortisol
Zona reticularis: androgens
What hormones are secreted by the adrenal medulla?
Epinephrine and norepinephrine.
What are the three arterial sources of adrenal blood supply?
Superior suprarenal arteries (from inferior phrenic artery)
Middle suprarenal artery (from aorta)
Inferior suprarenal arteries (from renal artery)
What vein does the left adrenal gland drain into?
The left renal vein (sometimes also into the inferior phrenic vein).
What vein does the right adrenal gland drain into?
Directly into the inferior vena cava (IVC).
What stimulates aldosterone secretion?
Angiotensin II (via RAAS)
High potassium levels
ACTH (minor effect)
What stimulates cortisol release?
CRH from the hypothalamus → ACTH from the anterior pituitary → stimulates zona fasciculata.
What is the “Salt, Sugar, Sex” mnemonic?
Salt: Aldosterone (mineralocorticoid)
Sugar: Cortisol (glucocorticoid)
Sex: Androgens (sex hormones)
How does cortisol affect carbohydrate metabolism?
Cortisol increases gluconeogenesis in the liver, raising blood glucose levels. It also reduces glucose uptake by peripheral tissues, contributing to insulin resistance.
What effect does cortisol have on protein metabolism?
Cortisol promotes protein catabolism, especially in muscle tissue, leading to increased amino acid release for gluconeogenesis.
How does cortisol influence fat metabolism?
Cortisol stimulates lipolysis in adipose tissue, releasing free fatty acids into the blood. However, it can also promote fat redistribution to the trunk and face (central obesity).
What is the overall metabolic role of cortisol during stress?
Cortisol mobilizes energy stores by increasing blood glucose, free fatty acids, and amino acids, ensuring adequate fuel during stress.
How does chronic cortisol elevation affect metabolism long-term?
Chronic cortisol elevation leads to hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, muscle wasting, and increased visceral fat, contributing to metabolic syndrome.
