Cortisol is produced primarily by the adrenal glands, which are located on top of each kidney. Specifically, it is synthesized in the zona fasciculata, the middle layer of the adrenal cortex within the adrenal glands
. The production and release of cortisol are regulated by the hypothalamic- pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The hypothalamus in the brain releases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH then signals the adrenal cortex to produce and release cortisol into the bloodstream
. This regulatory system operates via a negative feedback loop: when cortisol levels rise sufficiently, they inhibit further release of CRH and ACTH to maintain balance
. In summary:
- Cortisol is produced in the zona fasciculata of the adrenal cortex in the adrenal glands on top of the kidneys.
- Its secretion is controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland through the HPA axis.
- The process involves CRH from the hypothalamus, ACTH from the pituitary, and cortisol release from the adrenal glands
