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Adrenal Glands

Author: Amanda Soderlind

Source: Video and Images Created by Amanda Soderlind

Video Transcript
Terms to Know
Adrenal Cortex

The outer covering of the adrenal gland that secretes hormones that regulate body mineral levels, metabolism and aid in the production of sex hormones.

Adrenal Medulla

The adrenal medulla is the inner ball of cells under the adrenal cortex. The adrenal medulla releases hormones called catecholamines (adrenaline) that elevate our metabolism in response to stress. The adrenal medulla is controlled by the sympathetic nervous system (SNS).

Epinephrine

Classified as a catecholamine (adrenaline) and is secreted from the adrenal medulla; epinephrine is found in higher amounts in the blood than its counterpart norepinephrine, and has slightly more of an effect on the heart.

Glucocorticoids

Hormones that affect glucose metabolism of the body, the most abundant one being cortisol a.k.a. the stress hormone.

Gluconeogenesis

The process of converting amino acids and lipids into glucose, this process takes place in the liver.

Hypoglycemia

The clinical term for low blood sugar.

Mineralcorticoids

Hormones that maintain mineral homeostasis; aldosterone is a hormone that stimulates the kidneys to retain sodium.

Norepinephrine

Classified as a catecholamine (adrenaline) and is secreted from the adrenal medulla; norepinephrine is found in lower amounts in the blood than its counterpart epinephrine, and has slightly more of an effect on the blood vessels.