Endocrine and Hormonal Systems Lecture Review

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the endocrine and hormonal systems, including types of cells, hormonal pathways, definitions, and mechanisms of action essential for understanding the material for the upcoming exam.

What are the two types of cells found in the pituitary gland?

Classic endocrine cells in the anterior pituitary gland and neuroendocrine cells in the posterior pituitary gland.

What is the shared delivery system for both endocrine and neuroendocrine cells?

Both release hormones into the bloodstream.

What are the four kinds of chemical communications?

Synaptic, Endocrine, Pheromone, Allomone.

How are neuroendocrine cells different from endocrine cells?

Neuroendocrine cells release hormones into the bloodstream upon reaching action potential, unlike endocrine cells.

What triggers milk letdown in nursing females?

Oxytocin.

What promotes water conservation and increases blood pressure?

Vasopressin.

What is the sequence of steps in the HPG Axis?

1. Hypothalamus secretes GnRH. 2. Anterior pituitary releases FSH and LH. 3. Gonads release steroid hormones.

How do hormonal contraceptives exert their effect?

They introduce synthetic estrogen and/or progesterone which inhibit GnRH release from the hypothalamus.

What are the two gonadotropins in females?

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) and LH (Luteinizing Hormone).

What are the two gonadotropins in males?

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) and LH (Luteinizing Hormone).

What happens to cells in a hypertonic environment?

Water moves out of the cell, causing the cell to shrink.

What is homeostasis?

Keeping a balanced and equal internal environment.

What is the primary characteristic of Stage 3 sleep?

Slow waves.

What happens to the pattern of activity in Box 1 after a SCN lesion?

Becomes purely reactive, with no schedule.

What triggers feelings of fear according to LeDoux?

The survival circuit in the amygdala triggers immediate responses, while conscious feelings involve higher brain processes.

Name the three substances released following the stress response.

Cortisol, Epinephrine, and Norepinephrine.

What role does CRF play in the stress response?

CRF (Corticotropin-Releasing Factor) is released by the hypothalamus and initiates the HPA axis.