Define Adrenal Glands

The adrenal glands, which are located near the kidneys, are a complicated set of organs. The adrenal glands secrete a variety of substances into the human body, but different parts of the glands secrete different chemicals and hormones.

Definition

The adrenal glands are either of the two small endochrine glands, one found above each kidney. Each gland is made up of the cortex and the medulla, which each secrete different chemicals.

First Region

There are three separate regions of each endochrine gland. The first region produces a group of hormones called mineralocorticoids, which act to conserve water and sodium ions in the body.

Second Region

The second region of the adrenal gland secretes glucocorticoids, which are related to blood glucose levels.

Third Region

The third region of the glands produces hormones called gonadocorticoids, which are sex hormones androgen and estrogen. Androgen is primarily male and estrogen is primarily female, but the adrenal glands produce small amounts of both.

The Medulla

The medulla produces the hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine. Both of these chemicals are produced in response to particularly stressful situations.

References

• Adrenal Gland Definition
• Adrenal Hormones