Adrenal gland zonation and hormone production (zona glomerulosa/fasciculata/reticularis, medulla)
Core concept
- Cortex = mesoderm; medulla = neural crest (a modified sympathetic ganglion)
- Go Find Rex, Make Good Sex - outside in
| Zone | Product | Driver |
|---|---|---|
| Glomerulosa | Aldosterone | Angiotensin II + K+ (ACTH only transiently) |
| Fasciculata | Cortisol | ACTH, diurnal |
| Reticularis | DHEA / DHEAS, androstenedione | ACTH, adrenarche |
| Medulla | Adrenaline ~80%, noradrenaline ~20% | Preganglionic sympathetic, ACh on nicotinic receptor |
- Zone identity is enzyme identity
- Glomerulosa alone expresses CYP11B2 (aldosterone synthase); it has no 17alpha-hydroxylase
- Fasciculata/reticularis express CYP17A1; reticularis adds 17,20-lyase + cytochrome b5
3 more sections, plus exam facts
Premium unlocks every note across every specialty, and the full exam fact library behind it.
Get premium access