Endocrine System and Cell Signaling Vocabulary

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering hyperthyroidism symptoms, intracellular signaling pathways, and the hypothalamic-pituitary target organ axis.

Hyperthyroidism

A condition indicated by symptoms such as weight loss, heat intolerance, agitation, bulging of the eyes, restlessness, insomnia, inability to concentrate, and high levels of thyroid hormones.

$T_3$ and $T_4$

Thyroid hormones evaluated during thyroid function tests.

Tyrosine

An amino acid involved in thyroid hormone production and discussed in the context of thyroid function.

Adenylate Cyclase

An enzyme that, when activated, converts ATP into cyclic AMP.

G Protein Coupled Receptor Protein Kinase

A receptor kinase activated by a non-nucleoside hormone binding to it, which subsequently activates other proteins to produce a cellular response.

Phospholipase

An enzyme activated by the G protein in the $IP_3$ calcium $PIP_2$ pathway.

Hypothalamic Pituitary Target Organ Axis

A general pathway where neurons in the hypothalamus release releasing (or inhibiting) hormones that travel to the anterior pituitary, triggering the release of anterior pituitary hormones.

Corticotropin Releasing Hormone

A releasing hormone secreted by the hypothalamus.

Growth Hormone

A hormone released from the anterior pituitary gland.