<P> The central adrenomedullary vein, in the adrenal medulla, is an unusual type of blood vessel . Its structure is different from the other veins in that the smooth muscle in its tunica media (the middle layer of the vessel) is arranged in conspicuous, longitudinally oriented bundles . </P> <P> The adrenal glands may not develop at all, or may be fused in the midline behind the aorta . These are associated with other congenital abnormalities, such as failure of the kidneys to develop, or fused kidneys . The gland may develop with a partial or complete absence of the cortex, or may develop in an unusual location . </P> <P> The adrenal gland secretes a number of different hormones which are metabolised by enzymes either within the gland or in other parts of the body . These hormones are involved in a number of essential biological functions . </P> <P> Corticosteroids are a group of steroid hormones produced from the cortex of the adrenal gland, from which they are named . Corticosteroids are named according to their actions: </P>

What are the functions of the adrenal gland