ch 14 synopsis lesson

Hormones

Chemical messengers that play crucial roles in various physiological processes.

Proteins

They can act as hormones, enzymes, or structural components in cells.

Steroids

Lipid-soluble hormones derived from cholesterol that can influence gene expression.

Adrenal Cortex

The outer portion of the adrenal glands responsible for producing steroid hormones like cortisol.

Membrane Receptors

Integral proteins that bind to specific hormones, triggering intracellular events.

Intracellular Receptors

Proteins that bind to lipid-soluble hormones and activate gene transcription.

Second Messenger

Molecules that relay signals received at receptors to target molecules inside the cell.

Steroid Hormones

Lipid-soluble hormones that easily pass through cell membranes and influence cellular function.

Protein Synthesis

The process by which cells produce proteins based on genetic information carried by mRNA.

Feedback Loops

Regulatory mechanisms that help maintain homeostasis by adjusting hormone levels.

Negative Feedback Loop

A mechanism where an increase in hormone level decreases its production.

Biorhythm

Natural cycles of physical and emotional changes influenced by hormonal variations.

Control by CNS

The central nervous system regulates hormonal levels through monitoring and adjustments.

Oxytocin

A hormone responsible for uterine contractions during childbirth and mother-child bonding.

Positive Feedback Loop

A process in which hormone effects amplify its own production, such as oxytocin during labor.

Hypothalamus

A brain region that regulates bodily functions and hormone release from the pituitary gland.

SNS and Hormones

The sympathetic nervous system interacts with hormones to prepare the body for 'fight or flight' responses.

Pituitary Gland

The master gland of the endocrine system that regulates other glands and many bodily functions.

Hypothalamus + Pituitary Gland

Work together to control secretion of pituitary hormones affecting growth and stress responses.

Growth Hormones

Hormones that stimulate growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration, primarily secreted by the anterior pituitary.

Thyroid Glands

Glands responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism and energy.

Calcitonin

A hormone that helps regulate calcium levels in the blood by acting on bones and kidneys.

Parathyroid Glands

Glands that produce parathyroid hormone to maintain calcium homeostasis.

Adrenal Glands

Glands that produce hormones for metabolism, immune response, and stress management.

Insulin

A hormone that facilitates glucose uptake into cells, lowering blood sugar levels.

Glucagon

A hormone that raises blood glucose levels by promoting glycogen breakdown in the liver.

Gonads

Reproductive glands producing sex hormones and gametes, such as testosterone and estrogen.

Thymus Gland

An organ that matures T lymphocytes, critical for adaptive immunity.

Pineal Gland

A gland that secretes melatonin to regulate sleep-wake cycles.

Hyperthyroidism

A condition of overproduction of thyroid hormones leading to accelerated metabolism.

Hypothyroidism

A condition of underproduction of thyroid hormones leading to a slower metabolism.