Introduction

Thomas Addison first described the essential role of the adrenal glands (Fig 1) for human survival in 1855, and Brown-Séquard confirmed this essential role using adrenalectomized experimental animals one year later.

Subsequent studies led to the concept that the basic function of the adrenal gland is to protect the organism against acute and chronic stress.  This has been popularized as the “fight-or-flight” response for the medulla and the “alarm” reaction for the cortex.  Although the adrenal gland comprises two functionally distinct compartments (Fig 2); (1) the outer cortex that makes steroid hormones and (2) the inner medulla that makes catecholamines - it is the cortical steroids that are essential for life.  In contrast, disorders of both the adrenal cortex and the medulla, cause disease states due to excess hormone production.

The Rainey Research Lab is working on defining the mechanisms regulating normal and pathologic production of steroids by the adrenal cortex. As detailed within this web site, we have developed an international consortium of scientists to better define the mechanisms that control the production of the adrenal steroids; aldosterone, cortisol and the so-called adrenal androgens (DHEA and DHEA-sulfate).  From a training standpoint, members of our laboratory gain detailed knowledge in molecular endocrinology, steroid biochemistry and a clear understanding of the physiology and pathology associated with adrenal gland effects on its target tissues.