BIO345 – AP&P II Endocrine System Outline

These flashcards cover key concepts from the BIO345 Endocrine System outline, focusing on definitions of hormones, organs, and regulatory mechanisms in the endocrine system.

Endocrine System

A system comprised of glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream to affect distant tissues.

Hormones

Chemical messengers produced by glands that regulate various bodily functions and effects at low concentrations.

Hypothalamus

Considered the master endocrine gland because it synthesizes and secretes neurohormones regulating the pituitary gland.

Anterior Pituitary

The front part of the pituitary gland that secretes six important hormones controlling growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

Negative Feedback Mechanism

A regulatory mechanism in which an increase in the output of a hormone leads to a decrease in its own production.

Glucagon

A hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels by stimulating glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the pancreas that lowers blood glucose levels and promotes anabolic metabolism.

Diabetes Mellitus

A class of metabolic disorders characterized by persistent hyperglycemia and glucosuria, resulting from insulin deficiency or resistance.

Adrenal Glands

Paired glands located above the kidneys that secrete hormones involved in the body's response to stress.

Cortisol

A steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex with roles in metabolism, immune suppression, and maintaining blood glucose levels.

Thyroid Gland

A butterfly-shaped gland that produces thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) essential for metabolism and development.

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

A hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands that regulates blood calcium levels.

Hyperparathyroidism

A condition characterized by excessive secretion of PTH, leading to elevated blood calcium levels and associated symptoms.

Hypoparathyroidism

A condition resulting from insufficient PTH, leading to low calcium levels and increased nervous system excitability.

Growth Hormone (GH)

A hormone produced by the anterior pituitary that stimulates growth, primarily during childhood and adolescence.