In some species, amphibians and certain fish, for example, two separate organs are found. The suggested treatments for healthy adrenal function are a diet low in sugar, caffeine, and junk food, and targeted nutritional supplementation that includes vitamins and minerals: Vitamins. The utility, if any, of having them together in one discrete organ is not obvious. They increase heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration rate, preparing the body to either fight or flee in response to a perceived threat. The medulla derives from ectoderm (neural crest), while the cortex develops from mesoderm. What is Adrenal Gland and Their Function The adrenal medulla produces two hormones, adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine), which are involved in the body’s stress response. Histologic examination of the cortex reveals three concentric zones of cells that differ in the major steroid hormones they secrete.ĭespite their organization into a single gland, the medulla and cortex are functionally different endocrine organs, and have different embryological origins.

An outer cortex, which secretes several classes of steroid hormones (glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids, plus a few others).

The medulla is richly innervated by preganglionic sympathetic fibers and is, in essence, an extension of the sympathetic nervous system. The chromaffin cell is the principle cell type.

An inner medulla, which is a source of the catecholamines epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Inspection of a mammalian adrenal gland that has been sectioned reveals two distinct regions, as demonstrated to the right with a sheep adrenal (click the image to flip between surface and cut views):

The exact location relative to the kidney and the shape of the adrenal gland vary among species.

Like the kidneys, the adrenal glands lie beneath the peritoneum (i.e. The adrenal glands make hormones that help control: Blood pressure regulation. Metabolism (how your body transforms and manages the energy from the food you eat). The two adrenal glands are located immediately anterior to the kidneys, encased in a connective tissue capsule and usually partially buried in an island of fat. The main function of your pituitary gland is to produce and release several hormones that help carry out important bodily functions, including: Growth. Endocrine System > Adrenal Glands Functional Anatomy of the Adrenal Gland

Adrenal gland function