Adrenal Cortex Zones and Hormones Quiz

Which zone of the adrenal cortex produces mineralocorticoids like Aldosterone?

What is the primary function of glucocorticoids produced in the adrenal cortex?

Which adrenal cortex zone is responsible for producing androgens or sex steroids?

In the adrenal gland, what is the main function of the cells in the pancreatic islets?

Which cells in the pancreatic islets are responsible for producing insulin?

What is the function of ADH (antidiuretic hormone) produced by the supraoptic nucleus?

What is the main function of mineralocorticoids like Aldosterone produced by the adrenal cortex?

Which hormone is produced by the paraventricular nucleus and stimulates uterine smooth muscle contractions during childbirth?

Where are both ADH and Oxytocin stored before their release?

What is the role of Oxytocin in the body?

Where do ADH and Oxytocin temporarily accumulate before their release?

What is the main stimulus for the production of ADH?

Which part of the adrenal gland arises from the neural crest?

What are the general staining properties of acidophils in the pituitary gland?

Which hormone is primarily produced by Thyrotrophs?

What is the function of Glucocorticoids produced by the adrenal cortex?

Which adrenal gland zone produces mineralocorticoids?

What is the color of basophils in the pituitary gland when stained?

Adrenal Cortex Functions

Mineralocorticoids Production: The zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex produces mineralocorticoids, primarily Aldosterone.
Glucocorticoids Function: Glucocorticoids, produced in the zona fasciculata, mainly regulate metabolism, promote gluconeogenesis, and help in response to stress.
Androgens Production: The zona reticularis of the adrenal cortex is responsible for producing androgens or sex steroids.
Mineralocorticoids Function: Aldosterone helps maintain electrolyte balance and regulates blood pressure by increasing sodium retention and potassium excretion.

Pancreatic Islets

Main Function of Cells: The pancreatic islets, also known as Islets of Langerhans, primarily regulate blood glucose levels.
Insulin Production: Beta cells in the pancreatic islets produce insulin, a hormone crucial for glucose metabolism.

Hypothalamic Functions

ADH Function: Antidiuretic hormone (ADH), produced by the supraoptic nucleus, primarily regulates water balance and reduces urine output.
Oxytocin in Childbirth: Oxytocin stimulates uterine smooth muscle contractions during childbirth and is produced by the paraventricular nucleus.
Storage Location: Both ADH and Oxytocin are stored in the posterior pituitary gland before their release.

Hormonal Regulation

Oxytocin's Role: Besides childbirth, Oxytocin is involved in milk ejection during lactation and may promote bonding and social behaviors.
ADH Production Stimulus: The main stimulus for ADH production includes increased plasma osmolality and low blood volume.

Adrenal Gland Development

Neural Crest Origin: The adrenal medulla arises from neural crest cells during development.

Pituitary Gland Characteristics

Acidophils Staining Properties: Acidophils in the pituitary gland typically stain red or pink, indicating their affinity for acidic dyes.
Hormone from Thyrotrophs: Thyrotrophs primarily produce Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), which regulates thyroid function.
Basophils Staining Properties: Basophils in the pituitary gland appear blue or purple when stained, due to their affinity for basic dyes.

Test your knowledge on the different zones of the adrenal cortex and the hormones they produce. Learn about Zona glomerulosa, Zona fasciculata, and Zona reticularis along with the functions and characteristics of the hormones Aldosterone, Cortisol, and Androgens.