chromaffin

(noun)

The cells of the adrenal medulla that secrete adrenaline and noradrenaline in response to nervous stimulation.

Related Terms

  • chrom
  • neuroblast
  • adrenal cortex
  • neuroendocrine

Examples of chromaffin in the following topics:

  • Adrenal Medulla

    • Chromaffin cells are the neuroendocrine cells found in the medulla; they are modified post-synaptic sympathetic neurons that receive sympathetic input.
    • When stimulated, chromaffin cells secrete adrenaline and noradrenaline along with enkephalin and enkephalin-containing peptides into the bloodstream.
  • Postganglionic Neurons

    • The two exceptions mentioned above are the postganglionic neurons of sweat glands and the chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla.
    • The chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla are analogous to post-ganglionic neurons—the adrenal medulla develops in tandem with the sympathetic nervous system and acts as a modified sympathetic ganglion.
    • Within this endocrine gland, the pre-ganglionic neurons create synapses with chromaffin cells and stimulate the chromaffin cells to release norepinephrine and epinephrine directly into the blood.
  • Development of the Urinary System

    • The adrenal medulla forms from neural crest cells that migrate into the fetal cortex and differentiate into chromaffin cells.
  • Epinephrine and Norepinephrine

    • Norepinephrine is synthesized from dopamine by dopamine β-hydroxylase in the secretory granules of the medullary chromaffin cells and is released from the adrenal medulla into the blood as a hormone.
  • Preganglionic Neurons

    • The chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla.
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