Suprarenal (adrenal) glands, their structure, and functions

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Suprarenal (adrenal) glands, their structure, and functions

Suprarenal (Adrenal) Glands

1. Location and Blood Supply

• Structure: Pyramid-shaped endocrine glands located on the superior pole of each kidney.
• Blood Supply:
  • Richly supplied by suprarenal arteries.
  • Drained by a single suprarenal vein.
• Position: Situated near the abdominal aorta and inferior vena cava.

2. Structure of the Adrenal Glands

• Two Major Parts:
  1. Outer Cortex: Synthesizes steroid hormones.
  2. Inner Medulla: Produces catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine).

3. Suprarenal Cortex

• Produces corticosteroids (over 25 hormones).
• Divided into three layers:
  • Produces mineralocorticoids, primarily aldosterone.
  • Function: Regulates sodium and potassium ions in blood and body fluids.
  b. Zona Fasciculata (Middle Layer)
  • Produces glucocorticoids like cortisol and corticosterone.
  • Functions:
    • Stimulate lipid and protein metabolism.
    • Regulate blood glucose levels.
    • Reduce inflammation.
  c. Zona Reticularis (Inner Layer)
  • Produces adrenal sex hormones (weak androgens and estrogens).
• a. Zona Glomerulosa (Outer Layer)

4. Suprarenal Medulla

• Composed of chromaffin cells.
• Function:
  • Secretes epinephrine and norepinephrine.
  • Hormones are released in response to sympathetic stimulation (autonomic nervous system).
  • Initiates the fight-or-flight response:
    • Increases heart rate and blood pressure.
    • Mobilizes energy stores.