Bio 202 lab > Endocrine System > Flashcards

Endocrine System Flashcards

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1
Q

What is the primary function of the endocrine system?

A

Regulates physiological processes through hormones

Maintains homeostasis across variables such as metabolism, blood pressure, fluid balance, and reproduction.

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2
Q

Define endocrine glands.

A

Ductless glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream

Hormones travel to target tissues throughout the body.

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3
Q

Define exocrine glands.

A

Glands that release products through ducts to the surface of an organ or body

Examples include sweat glands, salivary glands, and digestive glands.

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4
Q

List the key differences between the nervous system and the endocrine system.

A
  • Nervous System: Uses electrical impulses, immediate effects, localized targets
  • Endocrine System: Uses hormones, slower effects, affects many tissues

Hormones act as middle managers carrying instructions from glands to target cells.

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5
Q

What are the functions of hormones?

A
  • Stimulating enzyme production
  • Changing metabolic activity
  • Modifying plasma membrane permeability

Hormones regulate cellular activity in various ways.

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6
Q

Differentiate between tropic and non-tropic hormones.

A
  • Tropic hormones: Target other endocrine glands
  • Non-tropic hormones: Act directly on non-endocrine tissues

Example: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is tropic; insulin is non-tropic.

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7
Q

What are the two main types of hormones based on their chemical structure?

A
  • Steroid hormones
  • Amine hormones

Steroid hormones are lipid-soluble; amine hormones may be water-soluble or lipid-soluble.

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8
Q

What are steroid hormones derived from?

A

Cholesterol

They are lipid-soluble and can pass through cell membranes.

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9
Q

What are amine hormones derived from?

A

Amino acids such as tyrosine or tryptophan

Examples include epinephrine and thyroid hormones.

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10
Q

True or false: Water-soluble hormones can cross the lipid membrane of a cell.

A

FALSE

They bind to receptors on the outside of the target cell’s membrane.

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11
Q

What is the primary function of the pituitary gland?

A

Produces and secretes several hormones

It is composed of anterior and posterior regions.

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12
Q

What is the hypothalamus considered in the endocrine system?

A

Chief executive officer (CEO)

It maintains a close working relationship with the pituitary gland.

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13
Q

List the hormones produced by the hypothalamus that interact with the anterior pituitary gland.

A
  • Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone (TRH)
  • Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone (CRH)
  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH)
  • Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH)
  • Prolactin-Inhibiting Hormone (PIH)
  • Somatostatin (SST)

These hormones regulate the activity of the anterior pituitary gland.

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14
Q

What hormones does the hypothalamus produce that are stored in the posterior pituitary?

A
  • Oxytocin
  • Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

Oxytocin triggers uterine contractions; ADH promotes water retention.

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15
Q

What is the mnemonic to remember the six major anterior pituitary hormones?

A

FLAT PG

Each letter corresponds to a hormone: FSH, LH, ACTH, TSH, PRL, GH.

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16
Q

What does FSH stand for and what is its function?

A

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone; stimulates development of follicles in ovaries and sperm production in testes

It is one of the anterior pituitary hormones.

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17
Q

What does LH stand for and what is its function?

A

Luteinizing Hormone; triggers ovulation and testosterone production

It is one of the anterior pituitary hormones.

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18
Q

What does ACTH stand for and what is its function?

A

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone; stimulates hormone secretion from the adrenal cortex

It is particularly active during stress response.

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19
Q

What does TSH stand for and what is its function?

A

Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone; stimulates the thyroid gland to secrete hormones

It regulates metabolism and temperature.

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20
Q

What does PRL stand for and what is its function?

A

Prolactin; promotes milk production in mammary glands

It should not be confused with oxytocin.

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21
Q

What does GH stand for and what is its function?

A

Growth Hormone; stimulates cell division and protein synthesis

This hormone has both tropic and non-tropic effects.

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22
Q

What hormone stimulates hormone secretion from the adrenal cortex during the stress response?

A

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)

ACTH is released from the anterior pituitary gland.

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23
Q

What is the function of Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)?

A

Stimulates the thyroid gland to grow and secrete hormones

TSH regulates metabolism and temperature.

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24
Q

What does Prolactin (PRL) promote?

A

Milk production in mammary glands

Do not confuse with oxytocin, which is responsible for milk ejection.

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25
What is another name for **Growth Hormone (GH)**?
Somatotropin ## Footnote GH stimulates cell division and protein synthesis.
26
The **posterior pituitary gland** stores and releases which two hormones?
* Oxytocin * Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) ## Footnote These hormones are produced by the hypothalamus.
27
What is the primary role of the **pineal gland**?
Regulating the sleep-wake cycle ## Footnote It secretes melatonin in response to decreased light levels.
28
What hormone does the **thyroid gland** secrete in response to TSH?
* Tetraiodothyronine (T4) * Triiodothyronine (T3) ## Footnote T3 is the more active form of the two hormones.
29
What is the function of **calcitonin**?
Regulates calcium ion homeostasis ## Footnote Released when blood calcium levels are high.
30
What hormone is secreted by the **parathyroid glands**?
Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) ## Footnote PTH maintains calcium ion homeostasis in response to low blood calcium levels.
31
What is the main function of **thymosin**?
Stimulates the development of lymphatic organs ## Footnote It regulates the development and activity of T lymphocytes.
32
What are the two regions of the **adrenal glands**?
* Adrenal Cortex * Adrenal Medulla ## Footnote Each region has distinct structures and functions.
33
What hormone is produced in the **zona glomerulosa** of the adrenal cortex?
Mineralocorticoids (e.g., Aldosterone) ## Footnote Regulates electrolyte balance and blood pressure.
34
What is the primary hormone secreted by the **zona fasciculata**?
Glucocorticoids (e.g., Cortisol) ## Footnote Regulates glucose metabolism and stress response.
35
What hormones are secreted by the **adrenal medulla**?
* Epinephrine * Norepinephrine ## Footnote These hormones trigger the fight or flight response.
36
What is the primary function of **insulin**?
Lowers blood glucose concentration ## Footnote It triggers the uptake of glucose into body cells.
37
What does **glucagon** do?
Raises blood glucose concentration ## Footnote It stimulates the liver to break down glycogen into glucose.
38
What hormone is secreted by the **testes**?
Testosterone ## Footnote It stimulates spermatogenesis and promotes male secondary sex characteristics.
39
What are the two major hormones produced by the **ovaries**?
* Estrogen * Progesterone ## Footnote These hormones regulate female reproductive processes and secondary sex characteristics.
40
What is the primary function of **Estrogen**?
* Supports the development and maturation of oocytes * Promotes female secondary sex characteristics * Regulates several reproductive processes including the menstrual cycle ## Footnote Secondary sex characteristics include development of breasts, accumulation of subcutaneous fat, and widening of hips.
41
What is the primary function of **Progesterone**?
* Prepares the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg * Supports pregnancy by maintaining the uterine lining * Helps regulate the menstrual cycle in coordination with estrogen ## Footnote Progesterone plays a crucial role in preparing the body for pregnancy.
42
In the **endocrine system**, what is the purpose of a **negative feedback loop**?
* Suppresses hormone secretion when levels rise * Increases hormone secretion when levels fall ## Footnote This mechanism helps maintain a stable internal environment.
43
What are the **three major endocrine organs** identified in histology?
* Thyroid gland * Adrenal glands * Pancreas ## Footnote Recognizing these organs is essential for understanding their functions in the endocrine system.
44
True or false: **Positive feedback loops** amplify the original stimulus.
TRUE ## Footnote They accelerate a process until an outcome is reached, such as during childbirth.
45
What are the **zones of the adrenal cortex**?
* Zona Glomerulosa * Zona Fasciculata * Zona Reticularis ## Footnote Each zone has distinct features and functions related to hormone production.
46
Fill in the blank: The **thyroid gland** is characterized by a ring of simple cuboidal epithelium surrounding the __________.
reddish brown, acellular colloid ## Footnote This structure is essential for the production of thyroid hormones.
47
What distinguishes **pancreatic islets** from **acinar cells**?
* Pancreatic islets: Lighter, round islands, endocrine function * Acinar cells: Darker, compact, exocrine function ## Footnote Islets secrete hormones like insulin and glucagon, while acinar cells release digestive enzymes.
48
What is the role of the **hypothalamus** in hormone regulation?
* Releases hormones that stimulate the anterior pituitary gland * Regulates hormone levels through feedback loops ## Footnote The hypothalamus is crucial for maintaining homeostasis in the body.
49
What happens during the **cortisol regulation** feedback loop?
* Hypothalamus releases CRH * Anterior pituitary releases ACTH * Adrenal cortex releases cortisol * Elevated cortisol inhibits CRH and ACTH ## Footnote This loop prevents overproduction of cortisol.
50
What is the **function of glucagon** in blood glucose regulation?
* Stimulates glycogen breakdown in the liver ## Footnote Glucagon is released when blood glucose levels fall.
51
The hypothalamus communicates with the ________________________ via the hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal system.
anterior pituitary gland ## Footnote This system allows for the direct transport of hormones from the hypothalamus to the anterior pituitary.
52
True or false: **Insulin** triggers actions that raise the concentration of glucose in the blood.
FALSE ## Footnote Insulin lowers blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells.
53
True or false: **Interstitial cells** within the testes produce testosterone.
TRUE ## Footnote These cells are crucial for male reproductive health and development.
54
True or false: **Aldosterone** is the adrenal hormone responsible for the stress response.
FALSE ## Footnote Aldosterone regulates sodium and potassium levels, while cortisol is the primary stress hormone.
55
True or false: **Parathyroid hormone** triggers actions that lower the concentration of calcium ions in the blood.
FALSE ## Footnote Parathyroid hormone increases blood calcium levels by promoting calcium release from bones.
56
True or false: The **posterior pituitary** produces no hormones of its own.
TRUE ## Footnote It stores and releases hormones produced by the hypothalamus, such as oxytocin and vasopressin.
57
Which of the following sets of hormones are **antagonists**?
A Insulin and glucagon. ## Footnote These hormones have opposing effects on blood glucose levels.
58
Match the following endocrine organs with the hormone(s) each secretes: 1. Pineal gland 2. Thyroid gland 3. Pancreas 4. Thymus Gland 5. Hypothalamus 6. Adrenal cortex 7. Anterior pituitary 8. Adrenal medulla
1. Pineal gland: H Melatonin 2. Thyroid gland: A Thyroxine, triiodothyronine, and calcitonin 3. Pancreas: G Insulin and glucagon 4. Thymus Gland: C Thymosin and thymopoietin 5. Hypothalamus: B Thyroid-stimulating hormone and growth hormone 6. Adrenal cortex: E Aldosterone and cortisol 7. Anterior pituitary: D Antidiuretic hormone and oxytocin 8. Adrenal medulla: F Epinephrine and norepinephrine ## Footnote This matching helps understand the functions of different endocrine organs.
59
Which of the following is true regarding **endocrine organ histology**?
C The adrenal cortex has three zones of cells that secrete steroid hormones. ## Footnote The adrenal cortex is divided into zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and zona reticularis.
60
In a **negative feedback loop**, you would expect secretion from an endocrine gland to __________________after homeostasis has been restored.
decrease ## Footnote This mechanism helps maintain stable internal conditions.
61
What are the **two key physical properties** of blood?
* Viscosity * Osmolarity ## Footnote These properties are crucial for blood flow and fluid balance in the body.
62
Whole blood consists of two main components: **Plasma** and __________.
Formed Elements ## Footnote Plasma accounts for about 55% of blood volume, while formed elements account for about 45%.
63
What are the **key plasma proteins** found in blood?
* Albumin * Globulin * Fibrinogen ## Footnote These proteins play vital roles in transport, immunity, and clotting.
64
What is the function of **erythrocytes** (red blood cells)?
Carry oxygen throughout the body ## Footnote They also pick up carbon dioxide from tissues and unload it in the lungs.
65
What is the **normal hematocrit** range for males and females?
* Males: 40–50% * Females: 36–44% ## Footnote Hematocrit values indicate the proportion of blood volume occupied by red blood cells.
66
What is the lifespan of **red blood cells**?
About 120 days ## Footnote They are produced in the red bone marrow through erythropoiesis.
67
What is **thrombocytopenia**?
Too low platelet count ## Footnote It can lead to easy bruising and prolonged bleeding.
68
What is the function of **thrombocytes** (platelets)?
Play a key role in hemostasis ## Footnote They form platelet plugs and initiate the blood clotting process.
69
What are the **steps of the clotting cascade**?
* Vascular Spasm * Platelet Plug Formation * Coagulation Cascade Activation * Common Pathway * Stable Clot Formation ## Footnote This process is essential for stopping bleeding.
70
What is the normal range for **leukocytes** (white blood cells) per microliter of blood?
About 5,000 to 10,000 ## Footnote They protect the body against infection and disease.
71
What are the two main groups of **leukocytes** based on the presence of visible cytoplasmic granules?
* Granulocytes * Agranulocytes ## Footnote This classification helps in understanding their functions and appearances.
72
What is the function of **neutrophils**?
First responders to infection ## Footnote They ingest and destroy bacteria and cellular debris.
73
What is the function of **eosinophils**?
Attack parasitic worms and participate in allergic reactions ## Footnote They also help regulate inflammation.
74
What is the function of **basophils**?
Release histamine and other inflammatory mediators ## Footnote They contribute to allergy symptoms and prevent clotting.
75
What are the **symptoms** of an allergy?
* Swelling * Redness * Itching ## Footnote These symptoms are common indicators of an allergic reaction.
76
What do **basophils** release to prevent clotting?
Heparin ## Footnote Basophils are involved in allergic reactions and inflammation.
77
What is the **abundance** of basophils in the total WBC count?
Less than 1% ## Footnote Basophils are the least numerous type of white blood cells.
78
What is the **appearance** of basophils under a microscope?
* Granules stain dark violet * Bilobed nucleus often obscured by granules ## Footnote This unique appearance helps in identifying basophils in blood smears.
79
In what conditions are **basophils** elevated?
* Allergic reactions * Hypothyroidism * Chronic inflammatory conditions ## Footnote Elevated basophils can indicate various health issues.
80
What are the **functions** of lymphocytes?
* Central players in adaptive immunity * B lymphocytes produce antibodies * T lymphocytes enhance immune responses and kill infected cells ## Footnote Lymphocytes are crucial for the body's immune defense.
81
What is the **abundance** of lymphocytes in the total WBC count?
20 to 25% ## Footnote Lymphocytes are a significant component of the immune system.
82
What is the **appearance** of lymphocytes?
* Large, dark-violet spherical nucleus * Thin rim of light blue-purple cytoplasm ## Footnote This distinctive appearance aids in their identification.
83
In what conditions are **lymphocytes** elevated?
* Viral infections * Chronic bacterial infections ## Footnote Low levels may indicate immune deficiencies or chemotherapy effects.
84
What is the **function** of monocytes?
* Mature into macrophages * Active phagocytes that engulf bacteria and debris * Present antigens to lymphocytes ## Footnote Monocytes play a vital role in the immune response.
85
What is the **abundance** of monocytes in the total WBC count?
3 to 8% ## Footnote Monocytes are larger than other white blood cells.
86
What is the **appearance** of monocytes?
* Largest WBC * Violet U-shaped or horseshoe-shaped nucleus * Light blue or light purple cytoplasm ## Footnote Their size and shape help in identifying monocytes.
87
In what conditions are **monocytes** elevated?
* Viral infections * Chronic inflammation * Certain leukemias ## Footnote Elevated monocytes can indicate various health conditions.
88
What is the mnemonic for **WBC abundance**?
Never Let Monkeys Eat Bananas ## Footnote This helps remember the order of white blood cell types by abundance.
89
What is **leukocytosis**?
Higher than normal WBC count ## Footnote Often indicates infection, inflammation, or leukemia.
90
What is **leukopenia**?
Lower than normal WBC count ## Footnote Can result from bone marrow failure, autoimmune disorders, or chemotherapy.
91
What is a **blood transfusion**?
Infusion of a recipient with a donor’s blood cells ## Footnote Commonly performed in surgeries, trauma, and blood loss.
92
What must be determined before a **blood transfusion**?
* Patient’s blood type * Compatible donor ## Footnote Ensures safety and compatibility during transfusions.
93
What are **antigens** and **antibodies** in blood typing?
* Antigens: Molecules on erythrocytes * Antibodies: Preformed in plasma ## Footnote These determine blood type compatibility.
94
What happens during a **transfusion reaction**?
* Agglutination of foreign erythrocytes * Clumped cells are destroyed ## Footnote This can lead to serious complications if not treated.
95
What is the **universal recipient** blood type?
AB+ ## Footnote Can receive from any blood type due to the presence of all antigens.
96
What is the **universal donor** blood type?
O− ## Footnote Has no antigens, making it safe for all recipients.
97
What is the **rule of thumb** for positive blood types?
* Can donate only to positive types * Can receive from both positive and negative types ## Footnote This helps in understanding blood donation compatibility.
98
What is the **rule of thumb** for negative blood types?
* Can donate to both positive and negative types * Can receive only from negative types ## Footnote Important for ensuring safe blood transfusions.
99
Who can **receive RBCs** from O− blood?
O− only ## Footnote O− is the universal donor and can only receive from itself.
100
Who can **donate RBCs** to AB+ blood type?
AB+ only ## Footnote AB+ can receive from any blood type.
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