Endocrinology and Reproductive Biology Concepts

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to hormones and reproductive biology.

Hormone

Substances produced by endocrine glands that act on cells, tissues, or organs to facilitate or inhibit physiological processes.

Endocrine Gland

A gland that secretes hormones directly into the blood or lymph.

Exocrine Gland

A gland that secretes substances externally via ducts, such as sweat or digestive enzymes.

Hypothalamus

The master neuroendocrine gland that regulates various body functions, including appetite, thirst, and emotion.

GnRH (Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone)

A hormone produced by the hypothalamus that stimulates the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the anterior pituitary.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

A hormone produced by the anterior pituitary that triggers ovulation and stimulates steroid production in ovaries and testes.

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

A hormone produced by the anterior pituitary that stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles and sperm production.

Dynamic Monitoring

Ultrasound observation used to track patterns of follicular development over time.

Parturition

The process of giving birth; involves a sequence of hormonal and physical changes.

Estrous Cycle

The reproductive cycle in female mammals, marked by phases such as proestrus, estrus, metestrus, and anestrus.