The Endocrine System

These flashcards cover key concepts, glands, hormones, and functions in the endocrine system.

What is the primary function of the pituitary gland?

The pituitary gland secretes hormones that regulate various endocrine functions and controls other endocrine glands.

What hormone is produced by the anterior pituitary that stimulates growth?

Growth hormone (GH).

What is the function of Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)?

ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to release corticosteroids.

What hormone does the posterior pituitary release?

The posterior pituitary releases antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and oxytocin (OT).

What is the role of melatonin, produced by the pineal gland?

Melatonin regulates sleep/wake cycles and is influenced by light exposure.

What hormone is produced by the thyroid gland that helps regulate metabolism?

Thyroid hormone (TH), which includes T3 and T4.

What hormone do the parathyroid glands produce?

Parathyroid hormone (PTH), which regulates calcium levels in the blood.

How does calcitonin from the thyroid gland affect blood calcium levels?

Calcitonin lowers blood calcium levels by inhibiting osteoclast activity in bones.

What hormones are produced by the adrenal cortex?

Corticosteroids, including glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and gonadocorticoids.

What hormone is known as adrenaline?

Epinephrine (E), produced by the adrenal medulla.

What is glucagon and what is its primary function?

Glucagon is produced by alpha cells in the pancreas and raises blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to release glucose.

What is the primary role of insulin?

Insulin lowers blood sugar levels by promoting glucose uptake into cells.

What hormone do the kidneys produce to stimulate red blood cell production?

Erythropoietin (EPO).

What does the hormone atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) do?

ANP helps decrease blood pressure by antagonizing the effects of aldosterone.

What are the two main hormones produced by the ovaries?

Estrogen and progesterone.

What are the functions of thymopoietin and thymosins produced by the thymus?

They stimulate the maturation of T-lymphocytes (T cells) in the immune system.

What hormone is a key regulator of calcium absorption in the intestines?

Calcitriol, the active form of Vitamin D.

What does oxytocin do?

Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions during childbirth and promotes milk ejection during breastfeeding.

What is the function of cortisol, produced by the adrenal cortex?

Cortisol promotes metabolism of lipids and proteins for energy and has anti-inflammatory effects.

What is the significance of the hypothalamus in the endocrine system?

The hypothalamus regulates hormone secretion from the pituitary gland and connects the nervous system to the endocrine system.