Chapter 14, Problem 14DC

Summary Introduction

The adrenal glands are a pair of glands, located on the superior portion of each kidney. The adrenal medulla and adrenal cortex are the inner and outer portion of the adrenal gland, respectively. The adrenal glands secrete various hormones in the body, the adrenal medulla secretes epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine. The adrenal cortex secretes over 25 steroid hormones, collectively known as corticosteroids or corticoids. Corticosteroids are mainly classified into three classes such as glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and sex steroids. Glucocorticoids (for example, cortisol) stimulate the catabolism of fat and protein for the production of glucose in the body. They release glucose and fatty acids into the blood by regulating the metabolism of carbohydrate, proteins, and fats. They regulate stress resistance, repair damaged tissue, and suppress the inflammatory response. Mineralocorticoids (for example, aldosterone) promote the level of sodium in the blood and reduce the potassium level in the kidneys. Also, regulate blood pressure and volume. Sex steroids regulate reproduction.