7/31/25 - Endocrine System Hormones to know (S.1.9)

Based on smart prep personalized plan + the notes I took on these sections

Insulin

Produced by the pancreas (beta cells). Lowers blood glucose by signaling cells to absorb sugar.

Glucagon

Produced by the pancreas (alpha cells). Raises blood glucose by promoting the breakdown of glycogen into glucose.

Thyroxine (T4)

Produced by the thyroid gland. Regulates metabolism, heart rate, and energy levels.

Epinephrine (Adrenaline)

Produced by the adrenal medulla. Triggers the fight-or-flight response—increases heart rate, blood pressure, and energy.

Growth Hormone (GH)

Produced by the anterior pituitary. Stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration.

Oxytocin

Produced by the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary. Stimulates uterine contractions during labor; involved in bonding.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

Produced by the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary. Promotes water reabsorption in kidneys to regulate fluid balance.

Melatonin

Produced by the pineal gland. Regulates sleep-wake cycles (circadian rhythms).

Estrogen

Produced by the ovaries. Regulates female reproductive cycle; development of secondary sex characteristics.

Progesterone

Produced by the ovaries. Maintains uterine lining during pregnancy.

Testosterone

Produced by the testes. Regulates male reproductive system; development of secondary sex characteristics.

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

Produced by the parathyroid glands. Increases blood calcium levels by stimulating bone breakdown.

Calcitonin

Produced by the thyroid gland. Lowers blood calcium levels by inhibiting bone breakdown.

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Produced by the anterior pituitary. Stimulates egg development in ovaries and sperm production in testes.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Produced by the anterior pituitary. Triggers ovulation in females and testosterone production in males.

Prolactin

Produced by the anterior pituitary. Stimulates milk production after childbirth.

Cortisol

Produced by the adrenal cortex. Manages stress, increases blood sugar, and suppresses the immune response.