Aldosterone-producing cells are located in which zone of the adrenal cortex?

Aldosterone-producing cells are located in which zone of the adrenal cortex?

• A. Zona glomerulosa
• B. Zona fasciculata
• C. Adrenal medulla
• D. Zona reticularis

Answer: (A)

Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid produced by the outer layer of the adrenal cortex. This layer, the zona glomerulosa, is specialized for mineralocorticoid synthesis and sits just beneath the capsule. The other cortical zones have different roles: the zona fasciculata makes glucocorticoids like cortisol, the zona reticularis produces adrenal androgens, and the adrenal medulla secretes catecholamines. Aldosterone release is driven mainly by the renin-angiotensin system and high potassium, linking this specific zone to its role in regulating sodium, potassium, and blood pressure.

Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid produced by the outer layer of the adrenal cortex. This layer, the zona glomerulosa, is specialized for mineralocorticoid synthesis and sits just beneath the capsule. The other cortical zones have different roles: the zona fasciculata makes glucocorticoids like cortisol, the zona reticularis produces adrenal androgens, and the adrenal medulla secretes catecholamines. Aldosterone release is driven mainly by the renin-angiotensin system and high potassium, linking this specific zone to its role in regulating sodium, potassium, and blood pressure.