Endocrine Glands and Hormones Overview

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the endocrine glands and hormones discussed in the lecture.

Endocrine Glands

Ductless glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream.

Hormones

Chemical messengers that regulate body metabolism, growth, and reproduction.

Polar Hormones

Water-soluble hormones that cannot pass through plasma membranes and must be injected.

Nonpolar Hormones

Insoluble in water, often called lipophilic hormones, can enter target cells directly.

Antagonistic Effects

Effects that occur when hormones work in opposite directions, such as insulin and glucagon.

Synergistic Effects

When two or more hormones work together to produce a particular effect.

Permissive Effects

When one hormone makes the target cell more responsive to a second hormone.

Insulin

Hormone that regulates plasma glucose concentration by lowering blood glucose levels.

Glucagon

Hormone that raises blood glucose levels, antagonistic to insulin.

Thyroid Gland

Gland located below the larynx that stimulates metabolism and growth.

Prostaglandins

Lipids that function as hormones and are released at the site they are needed.

Endocrine Disruptors

Chemicals that interfere with normal endocrine system function, influencing various health issues.