Adrenal medulla (catecholamines and peptides)

Abstract

Some primitive autonomic ganglia transform into neurons, some into satellite and neurolemma cells associated with neurons, and others become distinct endocrine elements. The latter stain brown with chrome salts and are thus designated chromaffin cells. This reaction is due to the presence of the hormone epinephrine contained within the cells. The chromaffin system consists of various aggregates of these cells throughout the body. The adrenal medulla is the most prominent member of the group. © 2005 Humana Press Inc.