The three zones of the adrenal cortex, each containing a different type of hormone-secreting parenchymal cell, are covered by a collagenous connective tissue capsule (arrow). The three zones are known as the zona glomerulosa (1), zona fasciculata (2), and zona reticularis (3). The cells in these zones secrete more than two dozen adrenocortical steroids, or cortico-steroids.
Adrenal Cortex Zona Fasciculata 400X
Numerous vacuoles (blue arrows) indicating the presence of lipids (cholesterol, fatty acids) fill the cytoplasm of poorly stained zona fasciculata cells of the adrenal cortex. A capillary sinusoid (green arrow) is visible to the right in the section. The three most important glucocorticocoids secreted by fasciculata cells are cortisol (hydrocortisone), corticosterone, and cortisone. These steroid hormones regulate glucose and fatty acid metabolism, suppress the immune response, and have anti-inflammatory effects. ACTH from the adenohypophysis of the pituitary gland stimulates the release of glucocorticoids.
Adrenal Medulla Chromaffin Cells 100X
The adrenal medulla is located in the center of the adrenal gland. Epitheloid cells of the medulla parenchyma are known as medullary or chromaffin cells. The chromaffin cells secrete the catecholamines norepinephrine and epinephrine. Portions of the central adrenomedullary vein (Av) are present.
OTHER IMAGES AVAILABLE WITH THE BOOK AND CD-ROM
Pituitary Gland Pars Intermedia Sagittal Section 100X
Adenohypophysis Pars Distalis Sagittal Section 400X
Neurohypophysis Infundibular Stalk Rabbit Sagittal Section 100X
Pineal Gland Capsule + Parenchyma 40X
Pineal Gland Parenchyma 400X
Pineal Gland Corpora Arenacea(Brain Sand) 100X
Thyroid Gland Capsule + Parenchyma 40X
Thyroid Follicles Cat 100X 400X
Parathyroid Gland Chief + Oxyphil Cells 400X
Adrenal Cortex Zona Glomerulosa 100X 400X
Adrenal Cortex Zona Fasciculata 100X
Adrenal Cortex Zona Reticularis 100X 400X
Adrenal Medulla Chromaffin Cells 400X
