Endocrine system Flashcards
(27 cards)
What is the endocrine system?
The endocrine system is a network of glands that produce and release hormones to regulate various bodily functions.
What are hormones?
Hormones are chemical substances that influence reaction rates within cells and tissues, affecting growth, metabolism, and homeostasis.
What are the primary components of the endocrine system?
The primary components include the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, thyroid gland, adrenal glands, pancreas, and reproductive glands (testes in males and ovaries in females).
What does the thyroid gland produce?
The thyroid gland produces thyroxine, which regulates metabolism and heat production.
What is the function of testosterone?
Testosterone is responsible for male secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive functions.
What is the function of estrogen?
Estrogen is crucial for female secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive health.
What role does insulin play?
Insulin is essential for glucose metabolism.
What is the function of adrenaline?
Adrenaline is involved in the ‘fight or flight’ response.
What is the lock and key mechanism in hormones?
Hormones interact with specific receptors on target cells, ensuring that each hormone elicits a particular response only in its target cells.
What is the role of the hypothalamus in the endocrine system?
The hypothalamus is the brain’s control center for the endocrine system, maintaining homeostasis by influencing the pituitary gland.
What are releasing factors (RF)?
Releasing factors are secreted by the hypothalamus to stimulate or inhibit the release of hormones from the pituitary gland.
What does the pituitary gland do?
The pituitary gland secretes various hormones into the bloodstream, regulating other endocrine glands.
What is the function of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)?
TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroxine.
Where is the thyroid gland located?
The thyroid gland is situated in the neck, adjacent to the trachea.
How does the thyroid gland respond to TSH?
In response to TSH, the thyroid releases thyroxine, elevating the metabolic rate and heat production within cells.
What is the process of endocrine temperature control?
A decrease in body temperature is detected by receptors, leading to a series of hormonal responses that increase metabolism and heat production.
What is the medulla oblongata?
The medulla oblongata connects the brain and spinal cord, controlling vital processes like heartbeat, breathing, and blood pressure.
What is the difference between endothermic and ectothermic organisms?
Endothermic organisms regulate their body temperature internally, while ectothermic organisms rely on external sources.
What are examples of endothermic organisms?
Examples include mammals (like humans) and birds.
What are examples of ectothermic organisms?
Examples include reptiles (like snakes) and amphibians (like frogs).
What is the speed of hormonal control compared to nervous control?
Hormonal control is slower, while nervous control is faster.
What type of signal does hormonal control use?
Hormonal control uses chemical signals (hormones in the bloodstream).
What type of signal does nervous control use?
Nervous control uses electrical signals (nerve impulses).
What is the duration of effect for hormonal control?
Hormonal control has a longer-lasting effect.
