Adrenal Glands
Adrenal Cortex
Outer layer of adrenal gland
Outer capsule surrounding three distinct layers
Zona Glomerulosa – outer layer which secretes mineralocorticoids (e.g. aldosterone)
which help control levels of sodium and potassium in the blood
Zona Fasciculata – middle layer which secrets glucocorticoids (e.g. cortisol) which
control the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins in the liver
Zona Reticularis – inner layer which secretes precursor molecules to make sex
hormones as well cortisol
Adrenal Medulla
Inner layer of adrenal gland
Secretes adrenaline and noradrenaline into the blood to be carried throughout the body
Adrenaline is a non-steroid hormone and acts as a first messenger as it cannot pass
through the plasma membrane
Adrenaline prepares the body for activity
Adrenal Cortex
Outer layer of adrenal gland
Outer capsule surrounding three distinct layers
Zona Glomerulosa – outer layer which secretes mineralocorticoids (e.g. aldosterone)
which help control levels of sodium and potassium in the blood
Zona Fasciculata – middle layer which secrets glucocorticoids (e.g. cortisol) which
control the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins in the liver
Zona Reticularis – inner layer which secretes precursor molecules to make sex
hormones as well cortisol
Adrenal Medulla
Inner layer of adrenal gland
Secretes adrenaline and noradrenaline into the blood to be carried throughout the body
Adrenaline is a non-steroid hormone and acts as a first messenger as it cannot pass
through the plasma membrane
Adrenaline prepares the body for activity
