Which adrenal cortex layer produces mineralocorticoids?

Which adrenal cortex layer produces mineralocorticoids?

• A. Zona fasciculata
• B. Zona reticularis
• C. Adrenal medulla
• D. Zona glomerulosa

Answer: (D)

Mineralocorticoids, mainly aldosterone, come from the outer layer of the adrenal cortex called the zona glomerulosa. This thin layer is dedicated to Na+ reabsorption and K+ excretion, helping regulate blood volume and pressure through the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. The middle layer, zona fasciculata, makes glucocorticoids like cortisol, while the inner layer, zona reticularis, produces androgens. The adrenal medulla, not part of the cortex layers, releases catecholamines such as epinephrine. So, the layer responsible for mineralocorticoids is the zona glomerulosa.

Mineralocorticoids, mainly aldosterone, come from the outer layer of the adrenal cortex called the zona glomerulosa. This thin layer is dedicated to Na+ reabsorption and K+ excretion, helping regulate blood volume and pressure through the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. The middle layer, zona fasciculata, makes glucocorticoids like cortisol, while the inner layer, zona reticularis, produces androgens. The adrenal medulla, not part of the cortex layers, releases catecholamines such as epinephrine. So, the layer responsible for mineralocorticoids is the zona glomerulosa.