Question

Zona glomerulosa or glomerular area of adrenal cortex is involved in-
a. Water and electrolyte balance
b. Carbohydrate metabolism
c. Steroid and hormone secretion
d. Blood pressure

Answer 1

Hint: The outer sheath of the adrenal cortex is responsible for production of mineralocorticoid hormones that are necessary for fluid balance control. It is responsible for mineralocorticoids such as aldosterone being formed.

Complete answer:
> Option A is correct. The superficial layer of the adrenal cortex (outer kidney region) that secretes aldosterone is Zona glomerulosa. It is a mineralocorticoid which preserves the balance of body water and electrolytes as it enhances water and sodium absorption and facilitates potassium excretion. It also participates in the mechanism of RAAS (Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system) to regulate the fluid balance of the body's blood pressure.

> Option B is incorrect. Cortisol is a glucocorticoid hormone that plays many significant roles in the body, developed by the zona fasciculata. It helps to control the use of fats, proteins and carbohydrates by the body; suppresses inflammation; controls blood pressure; increases blood sugar; and can reduce bone formation as well.

> Option C is incorrect. Steroid hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone are secreted by the adrenal gland. It also makes precursors (androgen, oestrogen) that can be converted to sex steroids. Adrenaline (epinephrine) produces a particular component of the adrenal gland.

> Option D is incorrect. Three hormones are produced by the adrenal cortex, including mineralocorticoids, the most important of which is aldosterone. This hormone helps regulate the levels of salt and water in the body, which, in turn, influences blood pressure.

Hence, the correct answer is option (A).

Note: There are distinct round nuclei in the cells of the zona glomerulosa and a higher nuclear to cytoplasmic ratio than the neighbouring zone fasciculata cells. It comprises cells arranged in clusters which are continuous with the capsule, divided by trabeculae.