Which adrenal cortex zone is primarily involved in cortisol regulation?

Which adrenal cortex zone is primarily involved in cortisol regulation?

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

Answer: (C)

Cortisol production is controlled mainly by the glucocorticoid-secreting layer of the adrenal cortex, the zona fasciculata. This zone responds to ACTH released from the pituitary, which itself is driven by CRH from the hypothalamus. When cortisol levels rise, they feed back to suppress CRH and ACTH, helping keep levels in check. The zona glomerulosa makes mineralocorticoids like aldosterone (regulated by the renin-angiotensin system), the zona reticularis produces androgens, and the adrenal medulla secretes catecholamines. So, for cortisol regulation, the zona fasciculata is the key player.

Cortisol production is controlled mainly by the glucocorticoid-secreting layer of the adrenal cortex, the zona fasciculata. This zone responds to ACTH released from the pituitary, which itself is driven by CRH from the hypothalamus. When cortisol levels rise, they feed back to suppress CRH and ACTH, helping keep levels in check. The zona glomerulosa makes mineralocorticoids like aldosterone (regulated by the renin-angiotensin system), the zona reticularis produces androgens, and the adrenal medulla secretes catecholamines. So, for cortisol regulation, the zona fasciculata is the key player.