Endocrine Control of Growth and Metabolism

A set of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to endocrine control of growth and metabolism.

Hypothalamic-pituitary axis

The pathway involving the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary, and endocrine glands for hormone regulation.

Releasing hormones

Hormones released by the hypothalamus, such as TRH and CRH, to stimulate the anterior pituitary.

Tropic hormones

Hormones released by the anterior pituitary, such as TSH and ACTH, that stimulate other endocrine glands.

Negative feedback

A mechanism where the final hormone inhibits further release from the hypothalamus and pituitary to maintain hormone levels.

Adrenal medulla

The inner part of the adrenal gland that secretes mostly epinephrine and is part of the sympathetic nervous system.

Aldosterone

A mineralocorticoid produced by the zona glomerulosa that regulates sodium, water balance, and blood pressure.

Cortisol

A glucocorticoid produced by the zona fasciculata that helps regulate blood glucose levels.

ACTH Adrenocorticotropic hormone

hormone released by the anterior pituitary that stimulates the release of cortisol.

Gluconeogenesis

The metabolic process promoted by cortisol that increases blood glucose by producing glucose from non-carbohydrate sources.

Muscle wasting

A condition that can occur with excess cortisol due to protein breakdown.

Adrenogenital syndrome

A condition caused by hypersecretion of adrenal androgens, leading to enlarged sex organs and premature puberty.

Follicular cells

Cells in the thyroid gland responsible for secreting thyroid hormones.

Calcitonin

A hormone secreted by C cells in the thyroid that helps lower blood calcium levels.

T3 and T4

Thyroid hormones named for their iodine content.

Graves disease

An autoimmune disorder associated with hyperthyroidism causing weight loss, nervousness, and increased metabolic rate.

Goiter

An enlargement of the thyroid gland caused by insufficient iodine, leading to inadequate hormone production.