Lesson 2.2. Everything Endocrine vocab flashcards

Endocrine System

Controls communication in the body and integrates and controls bodily metabolic activity through glands.

Hormones

Proteins produced by glands that carry messages between organs and cells, affecting energy levels, growth, mood, and sleep.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of stable internal physiological conditions that enables optimal functioning of an organism.

Exocrine Glands

Glands that secrete substances through ducts onto body surfaces, such as sweat glands.

Endocrine Glands

Glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream to reach target organs.

Receptor

Specialized protein molecules that detect specific stimuli and initiate physiological responses.

Target Cells

Specific cells that possess receptors for particular hormones, allowing them to respond to hormonal signals.

Feedback Loops

Processes by which specific glands respond to stimuli by releasing hormones to maintain bodily balance.

Insulin

A hormone that regulates blood sugar levels by allowing glucose to enter cells.

Glucagon

A hormone that raises blood sugar levels by promoting the release of glucose from the liver.

Type 1 Diabetes

A condition where the immune system attacks insulin-producing beta cells, resulting in little or no insulin production.

Type 2 Diabetes

A condition where the body does not use insulin effectively or does not produce enough insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels.

Chemical Communication

The process by which hormones act as signaling molecules to regulate various body functions.

Pineal Gland

An endocrine organ that produces melatonin and regulates sleep-wake cycles.

Hypothalamus

Links the nervous and endocrine systems and controls the hormones secreted by the pituitary gland.

Pituitary Gland

Secretes hormones that signal reproductive organs to make sex hormones and regulates ovulation.

Testosterone

A hormone secreted by the testes that plays roles in puberty, sperm production, and male secondary sexual characteristics.

Estrogen

A hormone secreted by the ovaries that regulates the female reproductive system, including menstruation and pregnancy.

Progesterone

A hormone involved in regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining pregnancy.