Endocrine Glands and Hormones They Produce

What hormones does the hypothalamus produce and what is their function?

Hypothalamic-releasing and inhibiting hormones; they regulate anterior pituitary hormones.

Which hormones are produced by the pituitary gland, and what are their chief functions?

Stimulating hormones (FSH, LH, TSH, ACTH) that stimulate hormone production in other glands; Growth hormone (GH) for cell division, protein synthesis, and bone growth; Prolactin for milk production.

What hormone does the pineal gland produce, and what is its primary role?

Melatonin, which controls circadian and circannual rhythms.

Which hormones does the thyroid produce, and what are their functions?

Thyroxine, which increases metabolic rate and regulates growth and development; Calcitonin, which lowers blood calcium levels.

What is the main function of parathyroid hormone (PTH) produced by the parathyroid glands?

It raises blood calcium levels.

What role does thymosin from the thymus play in the body?

It stimulates the production and maturation of T lymphocytes.

Which two hormones are produced by the pancreas, and what do they regulate?

Insulin, which lowers blood glucose and promotes glycogen formation; Glucagon, which raises blood glucose levels.

What hormones does the adrenal cortex produce, and what is their function?

Glucocorticoids (like cortisol), which raise blood glucose levels and stimulate protein breakdown.

What is the role of hormones produced by the adrenal medulla?

Epinephrine and norepinephrine are released in emergencies and help raise blood glucose levels.

What are the primary hormones produced by the ovaries, and what is their function?

Estrogens and progesterone, which stimulate female sex characteristics.

What hormone is produced by the testes, and what is its function?

Androgens (like testosterone), which stimulate male sex characteristics.