The outer layer, Zona Glomerulosa, produces mineral corticoids, especially aldosterone. The adrenal cortex mainly produces steroid hormones, which are produced in the 3 layers. The adrenal gland can be divided into two parts, an outer part called adrenal cortex, which itself can be subdivided into 3 layers ( Zona Fasciculata, Zona Reticularis and Zona Glomerulosa) and an inner part called adrenal medulla.Īll in all there are two different gland systems producing different kinds of hormones. To understand this process it is necessary to take a closer look at the anatomical structure of the adrenal glands. The term “endocrine” describes specific gland cells, which secrete their products, hormones, into the blood circulation.

This is the reason for the Latin name “supra”, meaning “over” and “renal”, meaning “kidney”. Glandula Suprarenalis, are endocrine glands which are located above our kidneys, separated by a thin fat layer.