The adrenal glands are paired endocrine glands. They are located above the upper parts of the kidneys in the region of 11-12 thoracic vertebrae. The function of the adrenal glands in the human body is the production and release into the blood of a number of essential hormones necessary to maintain normal life.
Structure of the adrenal glands
The left adrenal gland in an adult has a crescent shape, the right one is triangular. Both adrenal glands are enclosed in a thin fibrous capsule. They reach a length of 7 cm, a width of 3.5 cm. The thickness reaches 8 mm. Their average weight is about 14 g. Bundles of connective tissue with nerves and blood vessels depart from the adrenal glands. Blood enters through three groups of arteries, and its outflow occurs through the central and superficial veins. In the organ itself, 2 parts are distinguished. The outer part consists of the cortical substance and makes up 90% of the total mass of the adrenal glands. The cortical region, in turn, is divided into 3 zones: glomerular, fascicular, reticular. It performs the functions of the adrenal glandsproduction of steroid, corticosteroid and sex hormones. Inside, the organ is filled with medulla and contains many nerve cells. The basis of the substance is chromaffin cells. These cells provide the function of the adrenal glands to produce catecholamine hormones: dopamine, norepinephrine and adrenaline.
The importance of the adrenal glands for metabolism in the human body
The adrenal glands secrete a number of hormones that regulate metabolic processes. For example, glucocorticoid hormones promote carbohydrate metabolism in the body. With an excess of them, diabetes mellitus can develop. The breakdown of adipose tissue is also regulated. Hormones produced by the adrenal glands control the amount and location of its deposition.
Functions of the adrenal glands in the regulation of water-s alt balance
Thanks to these glands, water retention and mineral metabolism are controlled. This process is closely related to the work of the kidneys and the substances that are synthesized in them. Any violations in this system are fraught with the accumulation of excess fluid, increased blood pressure, and kidney damage.
Functions of the adrenal glands in the production of sex hormones
In the cortex of the paired glands under consideration, androgens and estrogens are formed - male and female sex hormones. They affect reproductive function, and are also important for the formation of secondary sexual characteristics. For example, androgens affect hair growth and support the function of the sebaceous glands inbody.
Functions of the human adrenal glands in adapting the body to stressful conditions
These functions consist in the development of special neurotransmitters (adrenaline, norepinephrine), which affect the work of the sympathetic nervous system, participating in the conduction of impulses. Thus, these hormones contribute to the restructuring of the body in a state of stress. They increase the pulse and blood pressure, increase sweating, reduce the motility of the gastrointestinal tract, and stimulate the expansion of the bronchi.
