Endocrine System Overview

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the endocrine system, its hormones, and their functions.

Fatigue

A state of extreme tiredness resulting from mental or physical exertion.

Cortisol

A hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that regulates metabolism and helps the body respond to stress.

Growth Hormone (GH)

A hormone that stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and cell regeneration.

Acromegaly

A disorder caused by excess growth hormone, leading to enlarged bones and tissues.

Cushing’s syndrome

A condition resulting from prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol.

Thyroid Hormone

A major metabolic hormone produced by the thyroid gland, essential for normal growth and development.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into tissues.

Glucagon

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

Melatonin

A hormone that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles, produced by the pineal gland.

Thymosin

A hormone produced by the thymus that stimulates the growth of T-cells important for the immune system.

Estrogens

Hormones produced by the ovaries that regulate female reproductive functions and secondary sexual characteristics.

Testosterone

The primary male sex hormone produced by the testes, responsible for male secondary sexual characteristics.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of stable internal conditions in a body despite changes in the external environment.

Hormones

Chemical messengers secreted by endocrine glands that regulate various physiological processes.

Endocrine Glands

Glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream.

Gonadotropins

Hormones that stimulate the activity of the gonads (ovaries and testes).

Feedback Mechanism

The process by which endocrine glands regulate hormone levels in the body through self-adjusting responses.

Negative Feedback

A process where an increase in a substance leads to a decrease in its production, maintaining homeostasis.

Aldosterone

A mineralocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that regulates sodium and potassium balance.