 Through these studies, the cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase A signaling has been identified as a key mediator of cortisol secretion, and the mutations associated with the dysregulation of cyclic AMP - protein kinase A pathways have been implicated in the adrenocortical pathophysiology.If functional, adrenocortical adenomas can affect the normal activities of the adrenal cortex.Located within the adrenal glands are the three zones that are responsible for secretion of the three major classes of adrenal steroids.