Which part of the adrenal gland is responsible for making epinephrine?

The part of the adrenal gland responsible for producing epinephrine is the adrenal medulla. This inner region of the adrenal gland functions as part of the sympathetic nervous system and is critical for the body's fight-or-flight response. When stimulated by the sympathetic nervous system, the adrenal medulla releases epinephrine (also known as adrenaline) and norepinephrine into the bloodstream. This release of hormones prepares the body to respond to stressful situations by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and energy availability.

The adrenal cortex, on the other hand, produces different hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens, which are involved in metabolic processes, stress responses, and electrolyte balance. The zona glomerulosa and zona fasciculata refer to specific layers within the adrenal cortex, with the zona glomerulosa mainly producing aldosterone and the zona fasciculata primarily producing cortisol. Thus, the role of the adrenal medulla is distinct and specialized for the synthesis of catecholamines, including epinephrine.