What unique characteristic is noted about the adrenal cortex's nerve supply?

The adrenal cortex is characterized by having no direct nerve supply. This is a significant aspect of its physiology because the adrenal cortex primarily functions through hormonal regulation rather than neural control. The adrenal cortex is responsible for producing vital steroid hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenal androgens.

Unlike the adrenal medulla, which is richly supplied by sympathetic nerves and acts in response to stress by releasing catecholamines, the cortex responds to endocrine signals. Specifically, it is regulated by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the anterior pituitary and angiotensin II for mineralocorticoid production. This separation in innervation and hormone response illustrates the distinct roles the adrenal glands play in the body's stress response and metabolic regulation.

In contrast, the other options suggest varying degrees of nerve supply that do not accurately represent the adrenal cortex's anatomy and physiology. Thus, the correct answer highlights the unique feature of the adrenal cortex in its lack of direct neural innervation.