Other Endocrine glands Flashcards
(24 cards)
What is the size and location of the Pineal Gland?
Pea-sized, located deep inside the brain
The Pineal Gland regulates sleep patterns through the hormone melatonin
What hormone does the Pineal Gland produce and what does it regulate?
Melatonin – regulates sleep patterns
Production of melatonin is stimulated by darkness and inhibited by light
Where is the Thyroid Gland located?
In the neck, below the larynx
It consists of two lobes connected by tissue in front of the trachea
What hormones are produced by the Thyroid Gland?
- Thyroxine (T4)
- Triiodothyronine (T3)
T3 contains three iodine atoms, while T4 contains four iodine atoms
What are the functions of the Thyroid Gland?
- Regulates metabolism
- Controls anabolic and catabolic reactions
- Maintains body temperature
- Regulates calcium and phosphorus levels
Calcitonin is secreted to lower calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood
What is the location of the Parathyroid Glands?
Four pea-sized glands located at the rear surface of the thyroid lobes
They secrete Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)
What is the function of Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)?
Increases blood calcium levels and promotes phosphate excretion in urine
Where is the Thymus located?
Above the heart, behind the sternum
It secretes thymosin, which influences the maturation of T-lymphocytes
What is the function of the Thymus?
Secretes thymosin, which influences the maturation of T-lymphocytes
Where are the Adrenal Glands located?
One on top of each kidney
They consist of two regions: adrenal medulla and adrenal cortex
What hormones are produced by the Adrenal Medulla?
- Adrenaline (epinephrine)
- Noradrenaline
These hormones prepare the body for the fight-or-flight response
What is the role of the Adrenal Cortex?
Produces 20 different corticosteroid hormones, including aldosterone and cortisol
What is the function of aldosterone?
Regulates kidney function by reducing sodium levels and increasing potassium excretion in urine
What is the function of cortisol?
Regulates metabolism, helps withstand stress, and aids in tissue repair
What is the location of the Pancreas?
Soft, 15 cm long organ, located below the stomach
Acts as both an exocrine and endocrine gland
What is the exocrine role of the Pancreas?
Secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine via the pancreatic duct
What hormones are secreted by the Islets of Langerhans in the Pancreas?
- Insulin (from beta cells)
- Glucagon (from alpha cells)
Insulin lowers blood glucose levels, while glucagon increases them
What is the function of insulin?
Lowers blood glucose levels by promoting glucose uptake into cells and converting glucose into glycogen and fat
What is the function of glucagon?
Increases blood glucose levels by breaking down glycogen into glucose and fat in the liver
What are the roles of the Gonads?
- Testes: Produce androgens (e.g., testosterone)
- Ovaries: Produce oestrogens and progesterone
These hormones develop and maintain sex characteristics and regulate reproductive cycles
What is the function of the stomach and small intestine in the endocrine system?
Secrete hormones that coordinate digestion and regulate exocrine gland function
What hormone do the kidneys secrete and what does it do?
Erythropoietin (EPO) – stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow
What hormone does the heart produce?
A hormone that lowers blood pressure
What is the role of the placenta in the endocrine system?
Supports pregnancy by assisting foetal development and stimulating mammary glands
