Ace the Endocrine System

What do the parathyroid glands do?

They keep calcium levels in your blood just right.

What hormone do the parathyroid glands release?

Parathyroid hormone (PTH).

What does PTH do?

It raises blood calcium levels by taking calcium from bones, telling kidneys to retain more calcium, and helping intestines absorb calcium.

What is the difference between endocrine and exocrine glands?

Endocrine glands have no ducts and release hormones directly into the blood, while exocrine glands have ducts and release their substances through tubes.

What does the pancreas produce?

Glucagon (raises blood sugar), Insulin (lowers blood sugar), and Somatostatin (regulates insulin and glucagon).

What are the three layers of the adrenal cortex and their functions?

Glomerulosa (makes aldosterone), Fasciculata (makes cortisol), Reticularis (makes sex hormones).

What are non-steroid hormones characterized by?

They cannot enter the cell and send messages by knocking on the cell door.

What are steroid hormones characterized by?

They can enter cells and affect DNA, taking longer to take effect but lasting longer.

What hormones are stored in the posterior pituitary?

ADH (anti-diuretic hormone) and oxytocin.

What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?

Weight gain, cold sensitivity, fatigue, constipation, and slow heart rate.

What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism?

Weight loss, heat sensitivity, rapid heart rate, diarrhea, and anxiety.

What condition is characterized by excessive cortisol levels?

Cushing’s Syndrome.

What is Graves’ Disease?

An autoimmune disorder that results in overactivity of the thyroid gland.

What is a goiter?

An enlarged thyroid gland.

What are some effects of cortisol?

It raises blood sugar, weakens the immune system, and increases blood pressure.

What is the difference between T3 and T4?

T3 has three iodine atoms and T4 has four; both increase metabolism.

What are the main jobs of the thyroid gland?

To control metabolism, aid growth, and regulate body temperature.

What hormones does the adrenal medulla produce?

Epinephrine and norepinephrine.

What are the key differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?

Type 1 is characterized by no insulin production; Type 2 is characterized by the body's inability to use insulin effectively.

What is hypercalcemia?

A condition of high calcium levels in the blood that can slow muscle function.

What is hypocalcemia?

A condition of low calcium levels in the blood that can cause muscle twitching.

What does the pineal gland produce?

Melatonin, which helps regulate sleep.

What happens if the parathyroid glands are accidentally removed?

Calcium levels drop, resulting in cramps and tingling.

What is the function of the pituitary gland?

It is known as the master gland; it produces various hormones including FSH, LH, ACTH, TSH, prolactin, and growth hormone.

What role does the thymus play in the immune system?

It helps grow T-cells, which are crucial for immune response.

What happens if there is too much growth hormone?

In children, it can lead to gigantism; in adults, acromegaly.

What does ADH do?

It helps the body retain water.

What is the function of the endocrine pancreas?

It produces hormones that regulate blood sugar levels.

What is the role of TSH?

It stimulates the thyroid gland to release T3 and T4 hormones.

What does prolactin do?

It stimulates milk production.

What does ACTH do?

It stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol.

What is the role of LH in men and women?

In women, it triggers ovulation; in men, it stimulates testosterone production.

What is the role of FSH?

In women, it helps eggs grow; in men, it supports sperm growth.

What does oxytocin do?

It is involved in labor contractions and milk ejection.