Gland
Adrenal cortex
Steroid-producing layers outside the adrenal medulla
High-yield
From capsule inward: glomerulosa, fasciculata and reticularis. Angiotensin II and potassium principally regulate aldosterone, while ACTH is especially important for cortisol and adrenal androgen production.
Overview
The adrenal cortex develops from mesoderm and forms most of the adult gland. Its cells use cholesterol to synthesize steroids, with enzyme expression differing across three zones. Those differences explain the distinct hormonal products and responses to regulatory signals.
Reference facts
- Location
- Beneath the adrenal capsule, surrounding the medulla and making up the larger portion of the adult gland.
- Hormones
- Glomerulosa chiefly produces aldosterone, fasciculata cortisol, and reticularis DHEA/DHEAS and related androgen precursors.
- Blood supply
- Capsular vessels feed cortical sinusoids that carry blood inward, exposing the medulla to cortical steroid-rich blood.
- Innervation
- Neural input affects vascular and local regulation, but secretion is chiefly governed by ACTH, angiotensin II and potassium according to zone.
- Function
- Maintains electrolyte balance and vascular responsiveness and contributes to metabolic, inflammatory and androgen regulation.
Mnemonic
Outer clusters conserve salt; middle cords make cortisol; inner networks supply androgen precursors.
Clinical correlation
Primary cortical failure can reduce cortisol and aldosterone, with increased ACTH contributing to hyperpigmentation. Prolonged glucocorticoid exposure may suppress the ACTH–cortisol axis while leaving mineralocorticoid regulation relatively preserved.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the adrenal cortex located?
Beneath the adrenal capsule, surrounding the medulla and making up the larger portion of the adult gland.
What does the adrenal cortex secrete?
Glomerulosa chiefly produces aldosterone, fasciculata cortisol, and reticularis DHEA/DHEAS and related androgen precursors.
What does the adrenal cortex do?
Maintains electrolyte balance and vascular responsiveness and contributes to metabolic, inflammatory and androgen regulation.
What is the blood supply of the adrenal cortex?
The adrenal cortex is supplied by the capsular vessels feed cortical sinusoids that carry blood inward, exposing the medulla to cortical steroid-rich blood.