Which gland produces cortisol?

Which gland produces cortisol?

• A. Pancreas
• B. Adrenal gland
• C. Thyroid
• D. Pituitary

Answer: (B)

Cortisol is produced by the adrenal gland, specifically its cortex. The adrenal glands sit atop the kidneys and have a cortex and a medulla; the cortex makes steroid hormones, including cortisol, while the medulla makes catecholamines. A signal from the pituitary called ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to release cortisol, but the actual hormone comes from the adrenal cortex. Other glands like the pancreas, thyroid, and pituitary have important roles, but they do not produce cortisol themselves.