What is the main function of the endocrine system? The main function is to produce hormones that regulate the body’s growth, metabolism, sexual development, and function.
How do hormones travel to their target organs? Hormones travel through the bloodstream to their target organs.
Which gland is known as the “master gland”? The pituitary gland is known as the “master gland.”
What hormone, released by the pituitary, stimulates growth? Growth Hormone (GH) stimulates growth.
Which gland regulates metabolism? The thyroid gland regulates metabolism.
What is the function of insulin? Insulin lowers blood sugar levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells.
Which gland helps the body respond to stress? The adrenal glands help the body respond to stress.
What are the male sex hormones called? The male sex hormones are called androgens (testosterone is the main one).
How does the endocrine system differ from the nervous system in terms of communication speed? The endocrine system communicates via hormones in the bloodstream, which is relatively slow but long-lasting. The nervous system communicates via electrical and chemical signals between neurons, which is very fast but short-lived.
Explain how the hypothalamus controls the pituitary gland. The hypothalamus controls the pituitary by producing releasing and inhibiting hormones that stimulate or suppress the pituitary’s hormone secretions. The posterior pituitary is an extension of the hypothalamus and stores/releases hormones made by the hypothalamus.
What is a negative feedback mechanism in the context of hormone regulation? It is a self-regulating system where the output of a process (e.g., high levels of a hormone) inhibits or slows down the process itself (e.g., signals the gland to stop producing the hormone), maintaining homeostasis.
How do the hormones of the adrenal medulla prepare the body for “fight or flight”? The adrenal medulla releases epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine, which increase heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar, diverting blood to muscles and preparing the body for emergency action.
What is the role of the thyroid hormones thyroxin and triiodothyronine? They regulate the body’s metabolic rate, influencing energy levels, growth, and development.
How can abnormal hormone secretion lead to psychological symptoms? Abnormal hormone levels can directly affect brain function and neurotransmitter systems, leading to symptoms such as anxiety (e.g., from hyperthyroidism), depression (e.g., from hypothyroidism), or mood swings.
Why is the pancreas considered both an endocrine and an exocrine gland? It is endocrine because it secretes hormones (insulin, glucagon) directly into the bloodstream. It is exocrine because it secretes digestive enzymes into the duodenum via a duct.
How do the hormones estrogen and progesterone function in the female reproductive system? Estrogen promotes the development of female secondary sex characteristics and regulates the menstrual cycle. Progesterone prepares the uterus for pregnancy and maintains the uterine lining.
What is the relationship between the nervous system and the endocrine system? They are closely interconnected; the hypothalamus serves as a major link, controlling the pituitary gland, which in turn regulates many other endocrine glands. The nervous system can trigger rapid hormonal responses (e.g., stress response).
A person with an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) would likely experience what set of symptoms? Symptoms might include restlessness, weight loss, rapid heartbeat, nervousness, and excessive sweating.
A child with a deficiency in growth hormone might develop what condition? They might develop pituitary dwarfism.
After a meal, blood sugar levels rise. Which hormone is secreted to bring it back to normal? Insulin is secreted to lower blood sugar levels.
If a person has a calcium deficiency, which gland would be activated to release a hormone that increases blood calcium levels? The parathyroid glands would be activated to release parathyroid hormone (PTH).
A person experiences chronic stress. Which part of the adrenal gland would be most active, and what hormone would it produce? The adrenal cortex would be active, producing cortisol, and the adrenal medulla would produce epinephrine and norepinephrine.
What condition results from the pancreas failing to produce enough insulin? Type 1 Diabetes results from the pancreas failing to produce enough insulin.
A tumor on the pituitary gland causes excessive secretion of growth hormone in an adult. What condition might result? Acromegaly might result, characterized by enlarged bones in the hands, feet, and face.
How might a problem with the pineal gland affect a person? It might disrupt sleep-wake cycles (circadian rhythms) due to its role in secreting melatonin.
