Endocrine System Review

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from the endocrine system as presented in the lecture.

Endocrine System

A collection of glands that produce hormones to regulate various functions in the body.

Hormonal Stimulation

Release of another hormone triggers the release of a hormone; e.g. TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to release thyroid hormone.

Humoral Stimulation

Changes in levels of nutrients or ions in the blood trigger hormone release; e.g., increased blood glucose stimulates the pancreas to release insulin.

Nervous System Stimulation

Stimulation by the nervous system triggers hormone release; e.g., sympathetic activation leads to the release of epinephrine.

Water-Soluble Hormones

Hormones that cannot pass through cell membranes and utilize cell surface receptors; includes proteins and biogenic amines.

Lipid-Soluble Hormones

Hormones that can pass through cell membranes to bind with intracellular receptors; e.g., steroids are lipid-soluble.

Eicosanoids

Signaling molecules derived from arachidonic acid involved in various physiological functions.

G Protein

A molecular switch that transmits signals from activated receptors to various intracellular pathways.

Up-Regulation

The process by which target cells increase the number of hormone receptors in response to low hormone levels.

Down-Regulation

The process by which target cells decrease the number of hormone receptors in response to high hormone levels.

Synergistic Effects

When multiple hormones work together to produce a greater effect on a target cell.

Antagonistic Effects

When one hormone opposes the action of another hormone.

Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal Tract

The pathway between the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland through which hormones are transmitted.

Growth Hormone (GH)

A hormone that stimulates growth and cell reproduction, synthesized and released from the anterior pituitary gland.

Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

A hormone produced by the anterior pituitary that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormone.

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)

A hormone that stimulates the adrenal cortex to release glucocorticoids, primarily cortisol.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the pancreas that lowers blood glucose levels.

Glucagon

A hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels.