Steroid Hormones

Vocabulary flashcards detailing the classification, carbon counts, chemical formulas, secretion sites, and physiological functions of steroid hormones.

Testosterone

A $19\text{ C}$ male androgenic steroid hormone ($C_{19}H_{28}O_2$) secreted by the Leydig cells of the testis and the adrenal cortex; functions in the development of male sex organs and secondary sex characters, anabolic effects, and spermatogenesis.

Estrogen

An $18\text{ C}$ female sex hormone secreted by the ovary, placenta, and adrenal cortex that functions in the development of female sex organs and secondary sex characters as well as producing an anabolic effect.

Estradiol

The most active and potent form of estrogen ($18\text{ C}$) containing two hydroxyl groups ($2\text{ OH}$), with the chemical formula $C_{18}H_{24}O_2$.

Estrone and Estriol

Forms of estrogen containing one hydroxyl group ($1\text{ OH}$) and three hydroxyl groups ($3\text{ OH}$), respectively.

Progesterone

A $21\text{ C}$ steroid hormone ($C_{21}H_{30}O_2$) secreted by the ovary, placenta, and adrenal cortex, known as the 'hormone of pregnancy' because it prepares the uterus for the implantation of the ovum.

Glucocorticoids

A group of $21\text{ C}$ steroid hormones secreted by the adrenal cortex (including corticosterone and cortisol) that increase blood glucose (hyperglycemic effect) and suppress immune, allergic, and inflammatory responses.

Cortisol

The most active glucocorticoid hormone ($21\text{ C}$) produced by the adrenal cortex, with the chemical formula $C_{21}H_{30}O_5$.

Mineralocorticoids

A group of $21\text{ C}$ steroid hormones secreted by the adrenal cortex (including $11\text{-Deoxy corticosterone}$, $11\text{-Deoxy cortisol}$, and aldosterone) that increase $\text{Na}^+$ and $\text{Cl}^-$ reabsorption and increase $\text{K}^+$ excretion by the kidney.

Aldosterone

The most active mineralocorticoid hormone ($21\text{ C}$) secreted by the adrenal cortex, with the chemical formula $C_{21}H_{28}O_5$.

Adrenal Medulla

The inner part of the suprarenal (adrenal) gland that secretes the catecholamines adrenaline and noradrenaline.

Adrenal Cortex

The outer part of the suprarenal (adrenal) gland responsible for secreting steroid hormones, including glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone.