definitions Flashcards
beta cells
cells in the pancreas which secrete insulin
cortex
outer layer of internal structure or organ
endocrine
a gland which secretes hormones
exocrine
a gland which secretes enzymes
genetically modified
a technology which involves inserting DNA into the genome of an organism
gland
an organ or tissue that synthesises and secretes a chemical messenger such as a hormone into the blood plasma
glucagon
a hormone released when blood glucose levels are too low
hormone
a chemical messenger which travels directly in the bloodstream
insulin
a hormone released when blood glucose levels are too high
medulla
a brain region which controls autonomic functions eg breathing and heart rate
negative feedback
the body’s mechanism for reversing a change so that it returns back to the optimum
pancreas
a gland located behind the stomach which releases hormones to control blood glucose levels and releases enzymes for digestive functioning
secretion
production and release of a useful substance by a gland or cell
stem cells
a cell that can divide (by mitosis) an unlimited number of times
type 1 diabetes
an autoimmune condition which means the person is unable to produce insulin
