Adrenaline is translated as “on the kidney” based on its Latin roots “ad” and “renes.” Epinephrine with its Greek roots “epi” and “nephros” meant the same way. These medical jargons, in turn, are used interchangeably. Human anatomy indicates that the adrenal glands responsible for the secretion of adrenaline are found on top of the kidneys.
Epinephrine is the hormone produced by the adrenal glands in fight-or-flight response. Upon release into the bloodstream, it triggers physiological effects ideal for emergency scenarios. Along with cortisol, it works as a neurotransmitter sending signals on vital organs such as heart, liver, lungs, and blood vessels.
Apart from physical threat, there are many other stressful cases that can give rise to adrenaline production. Overwhelming emotions either anger or excitement can boost the body’s energy level. Environmental factors can also shoot up blood adrenaline such as sudden and extreme noises, lights, and temperature. All these are being processed into the central nervous system.
In high-stress condition, the adrenaline orchestrates an unusual internal condition. Blood pressure is increased as the heart is triggered to pump faster. Blood and oxygen circulation is also altered as blood vessels contract and lung airways dilate. Stimulation of glycogenolysis in the liver yields high-energy compound for intense motor pursuits. All in all, it boosts performance that can last for a short period of time as in a quick burst of energy.
In order to build up some adrenaline, the adrenal gland makes use of amino acid for a series of conversion. The entire process happens in the medulla via oxidation, decarboxylation, and methylation to completely transform the compound into epinephrine. Hormonal secretion is instantly directed into the bloodstream as the medulla lacks major synapses.
As the hormone is flushed into the system, it would be better off to engage into physical activities at once. Failure to put the energy into good use leaves the bloodstream with high amount of adrenaline. As a result, the body may suffer from abnormalities such as insomnia and jittery nerves in a short span of time.
Although adrenaline occurs normally, attempts for artificial formulation has been initiated. Successful synthesis took place in 1904 after the hormone has been identified in the onset of the 20th century. As it is made up of organic molecules derived from ammonia, it became a member of the biogenic amines family. No wonder, it is closely related to morphine, novocaine, serotonin, and the like.
Artificial epinephrine is an initial combination of catechol and chloroacetyl chloride. The resulting mixture has to react with methylamine to bring out the ketone. Reduction to hydroxyl compound takes place thereafter to come up with the end product. Using tartaric acid, the solution can still be broken up into separate compounds.
Synthesis of adrenaline was brought about by its many medical properties. As a matter of fact, it is given as a treatment to serious health and fitness issues. These include cases of anaphylaxis, cardiac arrest, croup, severe pain, etc. Epinephrine is also added as part of some local injectibles that function as anaesthetics, not to mention the autoinjector variants found in the market.
