Nathan Cabrera Eribeth Chavez Anthony Aguirre Devin Vaca Adrenal Gland Nathan Cabrera Eribeth Chavez Anthony Aguirre Devin Vaca

Location The adrenal glands are superior to each the kidneys, therefore each of us have two adrenal glands (left and right) Each Adrenal gland is comprised of two distinct structures - the outer part is called the adrenal cortex The inner region is known as the adrenal medulla

Basic Anatomy The peripheral portion of the adrenal gland is called the adrenal cortex. The adrenal cortex is responsible for building 3 different types of hormones: mineralocorticoids glucocorticoids gonadocorticoids

General Function The Adrenal is in control of six functions Utilizations of carbohydrates and fats Conversion of fats and proteins into energy Distribution of stored fat (Around the waist and sides of the face) Normal blood sugar regulation Proper cardiovascular function Gastrointestinal function

Secretions & their Functions The Adrenal gland secrets 3 hormones Adrenalin Action of the heart increases Rate and depth of breathing increased Force of muscular contraction improves Onset of muscular fatigue delayed Blood supply to the bladder and intestines reduced, muscle walls relax, and sphincters Noradrenalin (Similar to Adrenalin) Constriction of small blood vessels leading to increase in blood pressure Increase blood flow through the coronary arteries and slowing of the arteries Rate and depth of breathing increases Relaxation of the smooth muscle in the intestinal walls Corticosteroids Glucocorticoids Utilization of carbohydrates, fat and protein by the body Normal response to stress Anti-inflammatory effect Mineralocorticoids Regulation of salt and water balance Hypersecretion of Aldosterone decreases potassium in the body (muscular paralysis)

Diseases Involved Adrenal disorders can be caused by too much or too little of a particular hormone. Causes of adrenal gland disorders include Genetic mutations Tumors including phenochromocytomas Infections A problem in another gland, such as the pituitary, which helps to regulate the adrenal gland Certain medicines Diseases of the adrenal gland include: Addison’s Disease Cushing’s Disease

Work Cited Maier, Rachael, ed. Suprarenal gland (adrenal gland). San Francisco, CA: healthline Medical Team, n.d. N. pag. Web. 19 Feb. 2016. <http://www.healthline.com/human-body-maps/adrenal-glands>. Wilson's, Dr. James L. Adrenal Function. Tucson, AZ: Adrenal Fatigue, n.d. N. pag. Web. 22 Feb. 2016. <https://adrenalfatigue.org/adrenal- function/>.