A hormone that the adrenal medulla secretes is:
A.
Mineralocorticoid.
B.
Epinephrine.
C.
Glucocorticoid.
D.
Aldosterone.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is B. Epinephrine.
Explanation
The adrenal medulla is the inner part of the adrenal glands, which are situated on top of the kidneys. It plays a crucial role in the body’s stress response by producing and releasing hormones that prepare the body for a “fight or flight” reaction. The primary hormones secreted by the adrenal medulla are epinephrine (also known as adrenaline) and norepinephrine.
Epinephrine is a hormone and neurotransmitter that is essential for the body’s acute stress response. When released into the bloodstream, it causes several physiological changes that help the body respond to stress or danger. These changes include increased heart rate, dilated airways, elevated blood glucose levels, and heightened alertness. This cascade of effects prepares the body to either confront or flee from a perceived threat, which is why epinephrine is commonly referred to as the “fight or flight” hormone.
The other options listed are hormones related to different parts of the adrenal glands:
- A. Mineralocorticoid: This term refers to a class of hormones produced by the adrenal cortex, not the adrenal medulla. The most well-known mineralocorticoid is aldosterone, which is involved in regulating sodium and potassium balance in the blood.
- C. Glucocorticoid: Glucocorticoids are another class of hormones produced by the adrenal cortex. Cortisol is the primary glucocorticoid and plays a key role in metabolism, immune response, and stress adaptation.
- D. Aldosterone: This is a specific type of mineralocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. Aldosterone helps regulate blood pressure by increasing sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion in the kidneys.
In summary, epinephrine is the primary hormone secreted by the adrenal medulla and is vital for the body’s immediate response to stress.