Endocrine system Flashcards
(25 cards)
A communication network in the body that regulates physiological processes through hormones
Endocrine system
A small region in the brain that acts as the control center, and produces releasing and inhibiting hormones
Hypothalamus
Also called as the “master gland”. A pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain that secretes hormones like the growth hormone (GH), oxytocin and ADH
Pituitary gland
A butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that controls metabolism and produces thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyroxine (T3)
Thyroid gland
Four small glands located behind the thyroid gland which regulates calcium levels in the blood
Parathyroid gland
Located on top of each kidney that produce hormones crucial for regulating metabolism, immune system and blood pressure
Adrenal glands
The outer region and largest part of the adrenal gland
Adrenal cortex
Hormone that balances salt in the blood
Aldosterone
Hormone that balances sugar
Cortisol
Hormones that trigger development of male physical characteristics
Androgen
Hormones that trigger development of female physical characteristics
Estrogen
Inner part of the adrenal gland that controls hormones which initiate fight or flight responses (epinephrine)
Adrenal medulla
Organ that produces hormones to regulate blood sugar and enzymes for digesting food
Pancreas
What is the endocrine function of the pancreas?
Produces hormones like insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar levels
What is the exocrine function of the pancreas?
Secretes digestive enzymes that help break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates
Male gonad that produces testosterone
Testes
Female gonad that produces estrogen, progesterone, and relaxin
Ovary
Small, pea-shaped gland in the brain that regulates sleep-wake cycle
Pineal gland
Hormone that triggers molting and metamorphosis in arthropods and crustaceans
Ecdysone
Hormone that maintains the larval stage, regulates metamorphosis and reproduction
Juvenile hormone
Releases neurohormones to control growth, reproduction and metabolism
Neurosecretory cells
A disorder wherein the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or cannot use insulin properly
Diabetes
Disorder where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormones which speeds up metabolism
Hyperthyroidism
Disorder where the thyroid produces too little thyroid hormones which slows metabolism
Hypothyroidism
