Gland
Zona glomerulosa
The outer cortex that adjusts mineralocorticoid output
High-yield
Aldosterone regulation is relatively independent of pituitary ACTH, although ACTH can stimulate it. This helps explain preserved mineralocorticoid function in many forms of central adrenal insufficiency.
Overview
Cells in the outer adrenal cortex form clusters beneath the capsule and express the machinery for aldosterone synthesis. Their output responds mainly to angiotensin II and extracellular potassium, linking the gland to circulating volume and electrolyte balance.
Reference facts
- Location
- Immediately deep to the adrenal capsule, external to the zona fasciculata.
- Hormones
- Aldosterone, the principal mineralocorticoid controlling distal renal sodium and potassium handling.
- Blood supply
- Capsular and subcapsular vessels provide blood before it passes into deeper cortical sinusoids.
- Innervation
- Endocrine control is dominated by angiotensin II and potassium, with ACTH and local factors providing additional modulation.
- Function
- Promotes distal sodium retention and potassium/hydrogen secretion, contributing to extracellular-volume and electrolyte regulation.
Clinical correlation
Renin-independent aldosterone excess can cause hypertension with suppressed renin; potassium may remain normal. In secondary aldosterone elevation, increased renin drives the response, for example when renal perfusion is reduced.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the zona glomerulosa located?
The zona glomerulosa lies immediately deep to the adrenal capsule, external to the zona fasciculata.
What does the zona glomerulosa secrete?
The zona glomerulosa secretes aldosterone, the principal mineralocorticoid controlling distal renal sodium and potassium handling.
What does the zona glomerulosa do?
Promotes distal sodium retention and potassium/hydrogen secretion, contributing to extracellular-volume and electrolyte regulation.
What is the blood supply of the zona glomerulosa?
The zona glomerulosa is supplied by the capsular and subcapsular vessels provide blood before it passes into deeper cortical sinusoids.