adrenal cortex [L, ad, to, ren, kidney] , the outer and greater portion of the adrenal gland, fused with the gland’s medulla. In response to adrenocorticotropic hormone secreted by the adenohypophysis, it secretes mineralocorticoids (primary aldosterone), glucocorticoids (cortisol), and androgens. Adrenal androgens serve as precursors that are converted by the liver to testosterone and estrogens. Renin from the kidney controls adrenal cortical production of aldosterone. Compare adrenal medulla. −adrenocortical, adj.
