Stimulates excretion of hydrogen ions and potassium.Increases reabsorption of sodium and water.Produced in response to low blood pressure via the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).Primary mineralocorticoid hormone: aldosterone.Responsible for regulating salt, water, and blood pressure.Zona glomerulosa and mineralocorticoid hormones (e.g., aldosterone).

Adrenal cortex is derived from the mesoderm, the middle germ layer during embryonic development.Adrenal gland consists of two parts: adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla.Introduction to the adrenal glands and adrenal cortex.Finally, adrenal androgens are converted into stronger sex hormones like testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and estrogens, which drive sexual development and sexual health. Cortisol raises blood glucose levels through protein catabolism and gluconeogenesis, and reduces inflammation and other immune responses. The adrenal cortex is divided into three regions, each responsible for secreting different corticosteroid hormones: the zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoid hormones like aldosterone in response to low blood pressure the zona fasciculata produces glucocorticoids such as cortisol in response to stress and the zona reticularis produces adrenal androgens, which can be converted into more potent sex hormones in peripheral tissues.Īldosterone increases sodium and water reabsorption, raising blood pressure, and stimulates the excretion of hydrogen ions and potassium, preventing the blood from becoming too acidic or high in potassium. The adrenal gland consists of two distinct parts: the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The adrenal glands are responsible for producing a multitude of hormones that regulate various processes such as blood pressure, stress responses, the immune system, and sexual development.

Adrenal glands sex hormones