Endocrinology Lecture Review

A collection of questions and answers to help review key concepts in Endocrinology for an upcoming exam.

What is Endocrinology?

It is the study of hormones, their synthesis, release, and effects on the body.

Who introduced the term 'hormone'?

Starling in 1905.

What are 'ductless' glands?

Glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream.

Name two common endocrine diseases.

Hyper/ Hypothyroidism and diabetes mellitus and PCOS

What is the function of the hypothalamus in the endocrine system?

It controls the pituitary gland and integrates nervous system and hormonal signals.

What are the two types of feedback mechanisms in the endocrine system?

Negative and positive feedback.

What is the role of the adrenal medulla?

It produces catecholamines like adrenaline for the 'fight or flight' response.

What hormones are produced by the anterior pituitary?

Growth hormone (GH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).

What is the primary hormone produced by the thyroid gland?

Thyroxine (T4).

Define 'autocrine' signaling.

A type of signaling in which a cell secretes a hormone that binds to receptors on its own surface.

What hormone triggers ovulation?

Luteinizing hormone (LH).

What is the function of insulin?

It regulates blood sugar levels by promoting glucose uptake into cells.

How do steroid hormones exert their effects?

By passing through the cell membrane and binding to intracellular receptors.

What type of receptors do peptide hormones bind to?

Cell surface receptors on target cells.

Why is negative feedback important in hormonal regulation?

It helps maintain homeostasis by limiting hormone production when levels are adequate.

What is the main effect of cortisol in the body?

It helps manage stress by increasing blood sugar and suppressing the immune system.

What are gonadotropins, and what do they stimulate?

Hormones like FSH and LH that stimulate the gonads (ovaries and testes).

What is the role of inhibin in males?

It suppresses FSH production to regulate sperm production.