Question

What is the function of the chromaffin cells in the adrenal medulla?

Answer 1

Hint: Adrenal medulla is a part of the adrenal gland which is an endocrine gland. The adrenal medulla is mainly composed of chromaffin cells. These cells are also known as pheochromocytes. These cells secrete hormones such as adrenaline, nor-adrenaline and some amount of dopamine and enkephalin.

Complete answer:
The human body performs numerous functions. All these functions are coordinated with the help of the nervous and endocrine system. Endocrine system functions with the aid of endocrine glands. Endocrine glands are ductless glands which means they pour their secretions directly into the bloodstream. These glands are located at different parts of our body. The secretions of endocrine glands are known as hormones. Hormones are chemicals that are produced in small quantities by the body.
Adrenal gland is one of the important endocrine glands located at the top of each kidney. Adrenal gland is also known as supra-renal gland. This gland consists of two parts: outer adrenal cortex and inner adrenal medulla. Adrenal medulla is made up of cells called chromaffin cells. These cells are supplied with sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves. The main function of these cells is to produce hormones such as adrenaline (epinephrine) and nor-adrenaline (nor-epinephrine).

Note:
These hormones are produced when our body is in distress or danger, hence they are known as flight, fight and fright hormones. The main function of these hormones are to maintain a normal heart rate and blood pressure. They help in the conversion of glycogen into glucose in the liver and muscles. They aid in maximizing our breathing rate in an emergency situation.