Adrenal cortex
Adrenal Cortex
The Adrenal Cortex (pronounced: /əˈdriːnəl ˈkɔːteks/) is the outer layer of the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys. The adrenal cortex plays a crucial role in the human body's response to stress and in the regulation of various metabolic processes.
Etymology
The term "Adrenal Cortex" is derived from the Latin words "ad" meaning "near", "renes" meaning "kidneys", and "cortex" meaning "bark" or "rind". Thus, the term literally translates to "the bark near the kidneys".
Function
The Adrenal Cortex is responsible for producing a variety of hormones, including Cortisol, Aldosterone, and Adrenal Androgens. These hormones play a vital role in the body's response to stress, regulation of metabolism, immune response, and various other bodily functions.
Cortisol
Cortisol (pronounced: /ˈkɔːrtɪsoʊl/) is a steroid hormone that helps the body respond to stress. It also plays a role in the body's metabolism of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates.
Aldosterone
Aldosterone (pronounced: /ɔːlˈdoʊstəroʊn/) is a hormone that helps regulate the balance of salt and water in the body, which in turn helps control blood pressure.
Adrenal Androgens
Adrenal Androgens are a group of hormones that are converted into male hormones (androgens) and female hormones (estrogens) in the body's peripheral tissues.
Related Terms
- Adrenal Medulla: The inner part of the adrenal gland that produces adrenaline and noradrenaline.
- Adrenal Gland: A pair of endocrine glands that sit on top of the kidneys and produce a variety of hormones.
- Endocrine System: The collection of glands that produce hormones that regulate metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, and mood, among other things.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Adrenal cortex
- Wikipedia's article - Adrenal cortex
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