AP Biology Endocrine System (Gland & Hormones)

Thyroid Gland

Regulates the body's metabolism, growth, and development.

Thyroxin (thyroid gland)

Hormone that controls the rate at which the body metabolizes glucose.

Triiodothyronine (thyroid gland)

A potent hormone similar to thyroxin, used in the treatment of hypothyroidism.

Parathyroid Gland

Controls the body's calcium levels

parathyroid hormone (PTH) (parathyroid gland)

raises blood calcium levels

Hypothalamus

Initiates an endocrine response and regulates the pituitary gland through releasing and inhibiting hormones.

Growth Hormone (pituitary gland)

Hormone that targets bones and muscles to drive growth and development.

Cortisol (adrenal gland)

A steroid hormone that regulates carbohydrate metabolism and maintains blood pressure.

Melatonin (pineal gland)

A hormone that regulates circadian rhythms and is released in periods of darkness.

Androgen (testis gland)

A male sex hormone that promotes the development and maintenance of male sex characteristics.

Pancreas

regulates blood sugar & produces enzymes to aid digestion

Insulin (pancreas gland)

Hormone that decreases blood sugar levels.

Glucagon (pancreas gland)

Hormone that increases blood sugar levels.

Negative Feedback Loop

A process where insulin and glucagon maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Thymosin (thymus gland)

Hormone produced by the thymus that stimulates the production of T cells.

Prolactin (pituitary gland)

Hormone involved in milk production and secretion.

Ovaries

Glands responsible for the production of estrogen and progesterone.

Testis

Glands responsible for the production of testosterone and sperm.

Adrenal Gland

Regulates metabolism and blood pressure in response to stress.

Pineal Gland

Regulates circadian rhythm and responds to the light-dark cycle.

Pituitary Gland

Known as the master gland, it regulates various bodily functions.

Catecholamines (adrenal gland)

Hormones that help the body cope with stress by increasing heart rate and blood pressure.

Thymus

aids in immunity by producing lymphocytes

Positive Feedback Loop

A feedback loop that amplifies a change or reinforces a process, often leading to a greater response.