Endocrine System III

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the endocrine system, including definitions of hormones, signaling mechanisms, and hormonal interactions.

Water-soluble hormones

Hormones that are hydrophilic and cannot cross the cell membrane; they bind to cell-surface receptors.

cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate)

A second messenger that is activated by adenylate cyclase in response to a hormone binding to a GPCR.

G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR)

A receptor that activates intracellular signaling pathways in response to hormone binding.

Growth hormone (GH)

A hormone that promotes growth, metabolism, and tissue maintenance, acting directly on tissues and influencing IGF-1.

Antagonistic Effects

Interactions between hormones where one hormone counteracts the effect of another, such as insulin and glucagon.

Permissive Effects

When one hormone enhances the effect of another hormone, necessary for the optimal action of the second hormone.

Additive effects

When two hormones produce similar effects independently, and their combined effect equals the sum of each individual effect.

Synergistic effects

When two hormones produce a greater combined effect than the sum of their individual effects.

Eicosanoids

Lipid-derived signaling molecules that play major roles in inflammation, immunity, and other physiological processes.

Prostaglandins (PGs)

A type of eicosanoid involved in various functions, including protection of the stomach lining and regulation of blood flow.