Layers
| Layer | Name | Primary product |
| Most superficial cortical layer | zona glomerulosa | mineralocorticoids (e.g., aldosterone) |
| Middle cortical layer | zona fasciculata | glucocorticoids (e.g., cortisol) |
| Deepest cortical layer | zona reticularis | weak androgens (e.g., dehydroepiandrosterone, adrenosterone) |
Notably, the reticularis in all animals is not always easily distinguishable and dedicated to androgen synthesis. In rodents, for instance, the reticularis also generates corticosteroids (specifically corticosterone, not cortisol). The two layers are collectively referred to as the fasciculo-reticularis. Female rodents also exhibit another cortical layer called the "X zone" whose function is not yet clear.
Read more about this topic: Adrenal Cortex
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