Hormone Effectiveness and Endocrine System

A set of flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to the effectiveness of hormones and the endocrine system.

Endocrine System

A network of organs and glands that produce hormones responsible for maintaining homeostasis, growth, and reproduction.

Hormones

Chemical substances that travel through the blood and bind to specific receptors on target cells.

Hypothalamus

A region of the brain that secretes regulatory hormones and senses imbalances to trigger hormone release.

Pituitary Gland

A gland that works with the hypothalamus to regulate other glands and hormones in the body.

Oxytocin

A hormone synthesized in the hypothalamus that stimulates uterine contractions during childbirth.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

A hormone that increases water retention in the kidneys and responds to increased blood osmolarity.

Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

A tropic hormone released from the anterior pituitary gland that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce hormones.

Cortisol

A glucocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that helps regulate metabolism and responds to stress.

Aldosterone

A mineralocorticoid hormone that targets kidneys to stimulate sodium retention and regulate blood pressure.

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

A hormone that increases calcium levels in the blood by targeting kidneys and bones.

Calcitonin

A hormone that helps lower calcium levels in the blood, antagonistic to PTH.

Insulin

A hormone secreted by the pancreas that lowers blood glucose levels by promoting glucose uptake in cells.

Glucagon

A hormone secreted by alpha cells in the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels by promoting glycogenolysis.

Thymosin

A hormone secreted by the thymus that is involved in maturing lymphocytes, crucial for the immune system.

Melatonin

A hormone secreted by the pineal gland that induces sleepiness.

Leptin

A hormone secreted by adipocytes that sends signals to the brain to promote a sense of fullness.

Ghrelin

A hormone secreted by the stomach that stimulates hunger.

Testosterone

A hormone produced by the testes that is essential for sperm development and male secondary sexual characteristics.

Estrogen and Progesterone

Hormones produced by the ovaries that regulate female reproductive functions and development of secondary sexual characteristics.