![]() The normal secretory activity of the adrenal cortex is maintained by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. The starting material for steroid hormone biosynthesis is cholesterol and the key reactions are catalyzed by a particular class of oxidizing enzymes, the cytochromes P450. Physiologically, aldosterone is by far the most important mineralocorticoid, while cortisol is the principal glucocorticoid. ![]() There are three major categories of adrenal steroid hormones: mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, and androgens. The hormones of adrenal cortex are steroids and act at the level of the genome to regulate expression of genes that govern the operation of fundamental processes. This chapter describes the structure of adrenal glands, hormones of adrenal cortex and medulla, and biosynthesis, physiological effects, regulation of secretion, and mechanisms of action of these hormones. Structurally, they are comprised of an outer region or cortex and an inner region or medulla. ![]() ![]() The adrenal glands are complex polyfunctional organs situated above the kidneys, whose secretions are required for maintenance of life. Maurice Goodman, in Basic Medical Endocrinology (Fourth Edition), 2009 Publisher Summary ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |