Which gland secretes cortisol?

Which gland secretes cortisol?

• A. Pituitary gland
• B. Hypothalamus
• C. Thyroid
• D. Adrenal cortex

Answer: (D)

Cortisol is produced by the adrenal cortex, the outer portion of the adrenal glands perched atop the kidneys. Its release is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis: the hypothalamus sends CRH, prompting the pituitary to release ACTH, which then stimulates the adrenal cortex to synthesize and secrete cortisol. The adrenal cortex is the part that makes glucocorticoids like cortisol, while the adrenal medulla produces catecholamines rather than cortisol. Cortisol helps raise blood glucose, supports the stress response, and modulates inflammation and metabolism.

Cortisol is produced by the adrenal cortex, the outer portion of the adrenal glands perched atop the kidneys. Its release is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis: the hypothalamus sends CRH, prompting the pituitary to release ACTH, which then stimulates the adrenal cortex to synthesize and secrete cortisol. The adrenal cortex is the part that makes glucocorticoids like cortisol, while the adrenal medulla produces catecholamines rather than cortisol. Cortisol helps raise blood glucose, supports the stress response, and modulates inflammation and metabolism.