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The layers of the adrenal gland differ by function, with each layer having distinct enzymes that produce different hormones from a common precursor. [4] The first enzymatic step in the production of all steroid hormones is cleavage of the cholesterol side chain, a reaction that forms pregnenolone as a product and is catalyzed by the enzyme ...
The adrenal medulla is the principal site of the conversion of the amino acid tyrosine into the catecholamines; epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Because the ANS, specifically the sympathetic division, exerts direct control over the chromaffin cells , the hormone release can occur rather quickly. [ 2 ]
Catecholamines are produced mainly by the chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla and the postganglionic fibers of the sympathetic nervous system. Dopamine, which acts as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, is largely produced in neuronal cell bodies in two areas of the brainstem: the ventral tegmental area and the substantia nigra, the latter of which contains neuromelanin ...
Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is a hormone and medication [10] [11] which is involved in regulating visceral functions (e.g., respiration). [10] [12] It appears as a white microcrystalline granule. [13] Adrenaline is normally produced by the adrenal glands and by a small number of neurons in the medulla oblongata. [14]
The adrenal cortex is the outer region and also the largest part of the adrenal gland. It is divided into three separate zones: zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata and zona reticularis. Each zone is responsible for producing specific hormones. It is also a secondary site of androgen synthesis. [2]
However, more severe disorders of the sympathoadrenal system such as pheochromocytoma (a tumor on the adrenal medulla) can affect the body's ability to maintain a homeostatic state. In these cases, curative agents such as adrenergic agonists and antagonists are used to modify epinephrine and norepinephrine levels released by the adrenal medulla ...
Pharmaceutical compound Norepinephrine Skeletal formula of noradrenaline Ball-and-stick model of the zwitterionic form of noradrenaline found in the crystal structure Clinical data Other names NE, NA, Noradrenaline, (R)-(–)-Norepinephrine, l-1-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)-2-aminoethanol 3,4,β-Trihydroxyphenethylamine Physiological data Source tissues locus coeruleus ; sympathetic nervous system ...
An example of a neuroendocrine cell is a cell of the adrenal medulla (innermost part of the adrenal gland), which releases adrenaline to the blood. The adrenal medullary cells are controlled by the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system. These cells are modified postganglionic neurons. Autonomic nerve fibers lead directly to them ...