Knowra Adrenal gland Adrenal gland An adrenal gland is an endocrine organ above a kidney. Its outer cortex and inner medulla produce hormones that regulate stress responses, metabolism, blood pressure, and salt balance.
Adrenal cortex : The outer region of an adrenal gland, producing steroid hormones including cortisol and aldosterone. Its layered tissue makes the gland’s steroid hormones.
Hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis : A hormonal signaling system linking the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal cortex to regulate cortisol. This feedback circuit controls cortisol release during stress and across the day.
Cushing syndrome : A disorder caused by prolonged exposure to excess glucocorticoids, especially cortisol. Excess adrenal cortisol can produce this characteristic clinical syndrome.
Adrenal development : The embryonic formation and maturation of the adrenal glands from distinct tissue lineages. Development explains the gland’s layered structure and separate cell origins.
Adrenaline : A catecholamine hormone and neurotransmitter that rapidly prepares the body for action. It is a medullary hormone, unlike the cortex’s steroid hormones.
Adrenal medulla : The inner region of an adrenal gland, producing catecholamines such as adrenaline and noradrenaline. Its chromaffin cells release rapid-acting stress hormones.
Renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system : A hormone system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance through renin, angiotensin, and aldosterone. It signals the adrenal cortex to adjust aldosterone secretion.
Primary aldosteronism : A disorder in which the adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone independently of normal renin control. Excess secretion from the cortex can drive hypertension and low potassium.
Mesoderm : The middle embryonic germ layer, which forms structures including muscle, bone, and parts of the urogenital system. The adrenal cortex develops from mesodermal tissue.
Cortisol : A glucocorticoid steroid hormone that helps regulate metabolism, immune activity, and stress responses. It is produced by the cortex rather than the medulla.
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