the adrenal cortex is composed of three distinct layers of endocrine cells which produce critical steroid hormones. these include the glucocorticoids which are critical for regulation of blood sugar and the immune system, as well as response to physiological stress, the mineralcorticoid aldosterone, which regulates blood pressure and kidney function, and certain sex hormones. both benign and malignant tumors of the adrenal cortex may produce steroid hormones, with important clinical consequences.