18 Thyroid, Pancreas and Other Endocrine Glands

Flashcards focused on key terms and definitions related to endocrine glands and their hormones.

Thyroxine

A hormone produced by the thyroid gland that regulates growth and metabolism.

Calcitonin

A hormone secreted by the thyroid that lowers blood calcium levels.

Parathyroid hormone (PTH)

A hormone produced by the parathyroid glands that increases blood calcium levels.

Islets of Langerhans

Clusters of cells in the pancreas that produce hormones like insulin and glucagon.

Glucagon

A hormone that raises blood sugar levels by promoting the release of glucose stored in the liver.

Insulin

A hormone that lowers blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells.

T3 (Triiodothyronine)

A thyroid hormone with three iodine atoms that regulates metabolism.

T4 (Thyroxine)

A thyroid hormone with four iodine atoms that also regulates metabolism.

Hyperthyroidism

A condition caused by excessive thyroid hormone production.

Hypothyroidism

A condition resulting from insufficient thyroid hormone production.

Melatonin

A hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates sleep-wake cycles.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

A hormone secreted by the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells.

Leptin

A hormone produced by adipose tissue that regulates energy balance and inhibits hunger.

Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP)

A hormone produced by the heart that reduces blood volume and pressure.

Thymosin

A hormone secreted by the thymus gland that helps in T lymphocyte maturation.

Testosterone

A primary male sex hormone produced in the testes that regulates secondary sex characteristics.

Estrogens

Hormones that regulate female reproductive functions and secondary sex characteristics.

Progesterone

A hormone that prepares the body for pregnancy and regulates the menstrual cycle.