Adrenal cortex ()

Adrenal cortex Overview

The **adrenal cortex** is the outer region and largest part of the adrenal gland. It consists of three distinct zones—zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and zona reticularis—each responsible for synthesizing different classes of steroid hormones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids such as aldosterone for electrolyte and fluid balance; the zona fasciculata produces glucocorticoids like cortisol involved in glucose metabolism and stress response; and the zona reticularis synthesizes weak androgens including dehydroepiandrosterone. These hormones are essential for maintaining homeostasis in blood pressure regulation, metabolism, immune function, and sexual development. Dysfunction in any zone can lead to significant endocrine diseases such as Addison’s disease or Cushing’s syndrome. Note: The "adrenal cortex" refers to an anatomical region composed of multiple cell types that produce various hormones but is *not* itself a therapeutic target like a receptor or enzyme. Instead, individual proteins expressed within this tissue—such as mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), glucocorticoid receptor (GR), aldosterone synthase/CYP11B2—are considered drug targets. Therefore: - **is_target:** false — it is not a single molecular entity suitable for direct pharmacological targeting. - **is_incorrect:** true — because "adrenal cortex" does not refer to an individual molecule/receptor/target but rather an organ/tissue compartment. For structured drug discovery information about actionable targets related to this system, refer instead to specific molecules such as “mineralocorticoid receptor,” “glucocorticoid receptor,” “aldosterone synthase,” etc.

Mechanism of Action

Biological Functions

Safety Considerations