Endocrine Hormones

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)

• made in Anterior Pituitary

• Stimulates the thyroid gland to release T₃ and T₄

ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone)

• made in Anterior Pituitary

• Stimulates the adrenal cortex to release cortisol

GH (Growth Hormone)

• made in Anterior Pituitary

• Stimulates body growth, cellular reproduction, and metabolism

LH (Luteinizing Hormone)

• made in Anterior Pituitary

• Regulates ovulation/progesterone in ovaries and testosterone in testes

FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)

• made in Anterior Pituitary

• Promotes egg development in ovaries and sperm production in testes.

PRL (Prolactin)

• made in Anterior Pituitary

• Stimulates milk production in the mammary glands

MSH (Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone)

• made in Anterior Pituitary

• Stimulates melanin production to darken skin pigmentation; affects appetite

ADH (Antidiuretic Hormone / Vasopressin)

• made in posterior pituitary

• Signals the kidneys to retain water to maintain fluid balance

Oxytocin

• made in posterior pituitary

• Triggers uterine contractions during labor and milk release during nursing

T₄ (Thyroxine) & T₃ (Triiodothyronine)

• made in thyroid gland

• Regulates overall cellular metabolic rate, body temperature, and heart rate

Calcitonin

• made in thyroid gland

• Lowers blood calcium levels by encouraging calcium storage in bones

Aldosterone (Mineralocorticoid)

• made in outer glomerulosa of adrenal cortex

• Regulates blood pressure by holding sodium and excreting potassium

Cortisol (Glucocorticoid)

• made in middle fasciculata of adrenal cortex

• Manages the long-term stress response, blood sugar, and inflammation

Adrenal Androgens (DHEA / Androstenedione)

• made in inner reticularis of adrenal cortex

• Weak male sex hormones converted into testosterone