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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about the adrenal medulla is correct?
A
The hormones it produces cause the kidney to reabsorb sodium and water.
B
It produces steroid hormones.
C
It cannot function in hormone production without releasing hormone (RH) from the hypothalamus.
D
It secretes hormones that suppress inflammation and control pain.
E
The gland is stimulated by nerve signals carried from the brain.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of the adrenal medulla: The adrenal medulla is part of the adrenal glands, located on top of the kidneys. It is responsible for producing catecholamines, such as adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine), which are involved in the body's fight-or-flight response.
Differentiate between the adrenal medulla and adrenal cortex: The adrenal cortex produces steroid hormones like cortisol and aldosterone, which are involved in regulating metabolism and electrolyte balance. The adrenal medulla, however, produces catecholamines, not steroid hormones.
Consider the mechanism of stimulation: The adrenal medulla is stimulated by nerve signals from the sympathetic nervous system, specifically from the brain, rather than by releasing hormones from the hypothalamus. This is a key distinction in understanding its function.
Evaluate the effects of adrenal medulla hormones: The hormones produced by the adrenal medulla, such as adrenaline, increase heart rate, blood pressure, and energy availability, rather than directly affecting kidney function or inflammation suppression.
Identify the correct statement: Based on the understanding of the adrenal medulla's function and stimulation, the correct statement is that the gland is stimulated by nerve signals carried from the brain, aligning with its role in the fight-or-flight response.