endocrine system: Adrenal Gland
Adrenal Gland
The adrenal gland is another endocrine gland regulated by the pituitary. The adrenal cortex, the outer part of each of the two adrenal glands, produces aldosterone, cortisol, and other steroids. These substances regulate salt concentration in body fluids and glucose, fat, and protein metabolism. The inner portion of the gland, the adrenal medulla, secretes epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine, substances connected with the autonomic nervous system that help the body to respond to danger or stress.
Sections in this article:
- Introduction
- The Hypothalamus
- Other Endocrine Glands
- The Sex Hormones
- The Thyroid Gland
- Adrenal Gland
- Pituitary Control
The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2024, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.
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