The cells are arranged cords that project in different directions giving a net-like appearance (L. reticulum - net).

[1] Cells in the zona reticularis produce precursor androgens including dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and androstenedione from cholesterol.

[3] These precursors are not further converted in the adrenal cortex if the cells lack 17β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase.

Instead, they are released into the blood stream and taken up in the testicles and ovaries to produce testosterone and the estrogens respectively.

[5][6] In humans, the reticularis layer does contain 17α-hydroxylase; this hydroxylates pregnenolone, which is then converted to cortisol by a mixed function oxidase.