Endocrine Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is the endocrine system?
A system of glands that makes hormones to control body functions.
What are hormones?
Chemical messengers that travel in blood and affect target cells.
How do hormones find target cells?
By matching specific receptors.
Name two ways hormones act.
Direct gene activation, second messenger system.
What is negative feedback in the endocrine system?
A process where hormones stop their own release when enough is made.
What gland is called the ‘master gland’?
Pituitary gland.
What does the hypothalamus control?
The pituitary gland.
Name one hormone from the anterior pituitary.
Growth hormone, prolactin, TSH, ACTH, FSH, LH.
What does oxytocin do?
Causes uterine contractions and milk ejection.
What does ADH (antidiuretic hormone) do?
Reduces urine output, increases water reabsorption.
What is the main hormone from the pineal gland?
Melatonin.
What does the thyroid hormone control?
Metabolism.
What is the function of calcitonin?
Lowers blood calcium levels.
What hormone raises blood calcium?
Parathyroid hormone (PTH).
What does the adrenal medulla release?
Adrenaline and noradrenaline (fight/flight hormones).
What does cortisol do?
Helps the body deal with stress, raises blood sugar.
What do insulin and glucagon control?
Blood glucose levels.
What hormones do the ovaries make?
Estrogen and progesterone.
What hormone is made by the testes?
Testosterone.
Name one effect of aging on the endocrine system.
Slower metabolism, higher risk of diabetes or heart disease.
