Chapter 18: Endocrine Function

A set of flashcards covering key concepts related to the endocrine function, including definitions and important hormones.

Endocrine mode

Chemicals are secreted into the interstitial space and enter the bloodstream for distribution throughout the body.

Second messenger

The most common second messenger in hormonal action is cAMP.

Upregulation

Increasing amounts of a hormone are required to elicit the same response because the number of receptors has decreased.

Down-regulation

The target cell loses receptors and is thereby desensitized to the hormone over repeated exposures to it.

Anterior pituitary control

Hormones that control the function of the anterior pituitary gland are released from the hypothalamus.

Feedback relationship

A feedback relationship with a hypothalamic or pituitary hormone regulates the production of other hormones.

Hypothalamic hormones

Hormones produced by the hypothalamus regulate growth hormone, prolactin, and TSH.

Glucocorticoids

Hormones produced by the adrenal cortex, primarily cortisol.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas.

Glucagon

A hormone produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas.

ACTH

A hormone that stimulates the production of all the adrenal cortical steroids.

Adrenal medulla

Produces epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Pituitary hormones

The anterior pituitary produces hormones known as tropic or stimulating hormones.

Releasing hormones

Hormones released from the hypothalamus that stimulate the anterior pituitary.

Thyroid gland

Gland not produced in response to a pituitary hormone.

Ovulatory hormones

The ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone.

Pancreas location

The pancreas lies within the abdominopelvic cavity near the border between the stomach and the small intestine.