Question

The adrenal cortex secretes many hormones commonly called (a) Catecholamine (b) Peptide (c) Corticoids (d) All of these

Short answer

The adrenal cortex secretes hormones commonly known as (C) Corticoids.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze the Question

The question is asking for the common name of the hormones that the adrenal cortex produces. It is crucial to know the types of hormones and their origin.

Understanding the Adrenal Cortex

The adrenal cortex is the outer layer of the adrenal glands. It produces hormones called corticosteroids or corticoids that play an essential role in the regulation of metabolism and immune response.

Evaluating the Options

The given options are Catecholamine, Peptide, Corticoids, and All of these. Catecholamines are hormones produced by the adrenal glands, but they come from the adrenal medulla, not the cortex. Peptide hormones are a class of hormones, but they are not specifically produced by the adrenal cortex. Corticoids are indeed produced by the adrenal cortex. Therefore, (C) Corticoids is the correct answer.

Key concepts

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are a group of hormones produced by the adrenal cortex. They play vital roles in various bodily functions, such as regulating metabolism, suppressing inflammation, and aiding in stress response. Corticosteroids are divided into two main types: glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids.

• Glucocorticoids, like cortisol, are involved in glucose metabolism and help control how the body uses carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They also manage the immune response and inflammation.
• Mineralocorticoids, such as aldosterone, maintain salt and water balance in the body. They help regulate blood pressure by controlling sodium and potassium levels.

The production and release of these hormones are precisely controlled by the pituitary gland, ensuring the body responds appropriately to various conditions. Without corticosteroids, the body's ability to handle stress and maintain homeostasis would be severely compromised.

Hormone Classification

Hormones are chemical messengers that coordinate and regulate many of the body's physiological activities. They fall into several categories, classified based on their structure and function. The primary classifications include:

• Steroid Hormones: Derived from cholesterol, these include corticosteroids from the adrenal cortex and sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone. They can pass through cell membranes to interact directly with cellular DNA, affecting gene expression.
• Peptide Hormones: Made up of amino acids, they include insulin and growth hormone. These hormones bind to receptors on cell surfaces, triggering internal cellular processes.
• Amino Acid Derivatives: These hormones are synthesized from single amino acids, like catecholamines (e.g., adrenaline) which the adrenal medulla produces.

Each category plays distinct roles in the body, and understanding their classifications helps in grasping their mechanisms of action. For instance, while corticosteroids have direct gene regulatory impact, peptide hormones depend on second messengers inside cells.

Endocrine System

The endocrine system is a network of glands that produce and release hormones regulating numerous bodily functions, such as growth, metabolism, and mood. In contrast to exocrine glands, which secrete substances through ducts, endocrine glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream.

• The pituitary gland, often called the "master gland," controls many endocrine functions by releasing hormones that regulate other glands.
• The adrenal glands sit atop each kidney and are composed of the cortex and medulla, producing hormones like corticosteroids and catecholamines, respectively.
• The thyroid controls metabolism, while the pancreas regulates blood sugar levels through insulin.

The endocrine system's harmony and balance are essential for health, with each gland and hormone playing specific roles. Disruptions in this balance can lead to various health issues, emphasizing the system's critical nature in maintaining homeostasis.