Which adrenal cortex zone is primarily responsible for mineralocorticoid production?

Which adrenal cortex zone is primarily responsible for mineralocorticoid production?

• A. Zona Fasciculata
• B. Zona Glomerulosa
• C. Zona Reticularis
• D. Adrenal Medulla

Answer: (B)

Mineralocorticoid production comes from the zona glomerulosa, the outer layer of the adrenal cortex just beneath the capsule. This zone specializes in making aldosterone, the main mineralocorticoid. Aldosterone acts on the kidney to increase sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion, which expands blood volume and raises blood pressure. Its production is driven mainly by the renin-angiotensin system and serum potassium levels, with ACTH providing only minor, short-term stimulation. The other adrenal cortex zones have different roles: the zona fasciculata produces glucocorticoids like cortisol, the zona reticularis produces androgens, and the adrenal medulla secretes catecholamines.

Mineralocorticoid production comes from the zona glomerulosa, the outer layer of the adrenal cortex just beneath the capsule. This zone specializes in making aldosterone, the main mineralocorticoid. Aldosterone acts on the kidney to increase sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion, which expands blood volume and raises blood pressure. Its production is driven mainly by the renin-angiotensin system and serum potassium levels, with ACTH providing only minor, short-term stimulation. The other adrenal cortex zones have different roles: the zona fasciculata produces glucocorticoids like cortisol, the zona reticularis produces androgens, and the adrenal medulla secretes catecholamines.