Adrenal glands
Definition
Adrenal glands are small, triangular-shaped glands located on top of each kidney. They produce hormones that regulate metabolism, immune system, blood pressure, and stress responses.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- The adrenal glands consist of two main parts: the cortex and the medulla.
- The adrenal cortex produces steroid hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens.
- The adrenal medulla secretes catecholamines like adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine).
- Cortisol helps regulate metabolism and immune response while aldosterone controls blood pressure by managing sodium and potassium levels.
- Disorders of the adrenal glands include Addison's disease (underproduction of hormones) and Cushing's syndrome (overproduction of cortisol).
Review Questions
- What are the two main parts of the adrenal glands?
- Which hormones are produced by the adrenal cortex?
- What is the role of cortisol in the body?
"Adrenal glands" appears in:
Subjects (6)
Study guides (1)
Related terms
Cortisol: A steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that regulates metabolism and immune response.
Aldosterone: A hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that helps control blood pressure by managing sodium and potassium levels.
Catecholamines: Hormones produced by the adrenal medulla, such as adrenaline and noradrenaline, involved in stress response.
