Chapter 17 - Section 17.3 - Other Endocrine Glands - Apply What You Know - Page 645: 1

The zona fasciculata is one of the three distinct layers of cells in the adrenal cortex, responsible for producing glucocorticoid hormones, such as cortisol. While the adrenal cortex is not directly related to pregnancy, the phenomenon you mentioned, where the zona fasciculata thickens significantly in pregnant women, is not a well-known or documented physiological occurrence. The adrenal cortex, including the zona fasciculata, is primarily involved in regulating stress responses, metabolism, and immune function. If you have come across this information in a specific context or source, it would be important to verify the accuracy and context of the claim. Without further context or evidence, it is not possible to provide a clear explanation for why the zona fasciculata would specifically thicken in pregnant women or what benefits this phenomenon might confer during pregnancy. If you have access to more information about this phenomenon, I would recommend consulting reliable medical sources or experts in the field for a more accurate understanding.

The zona fasciculata is one of the three distinct layers of cells in the adrenal cortex, responsible for producing glucocorticoid hormones, such as cortisol. While the adrenal cortex is not directly related to pregnancy, the phenomenon you mentioned, where the zona fasciculata thickens significantly in pregnant women, is not a well-known or documented physiological occurrence. The adrenal cortex, including the zona fasciculata, is primarily involved in regulating stress responses, metabolism, and immune function. If you have come across this information in a specific context or source, it would be important to verify the accuracy and context of the claim. Without further context or evidence, it is not possible to provide a clear explanation for why the zona fasciculata would specifically thicken in pregnant women or what benefits this phenomenon might confer during pregnancy. If you have access to more information about this phenomenon, I would recommend consulting reliable medical sources or experts in the field for a more accurate understanding.