Endocrine System Study Flashcards

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What is the main function of the endocrine system?
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The main function of the endocrine system is to produce and secrete hormones that regulate various body functions, including growth, metabolism, and homeostasis.
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Name one of the primary differences between the endocrine and nervous systems.
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The endocrine system uses hormones to communicate over long distances and its effects are generally slower and longer-lasting, while the nervous system uses electrical impulses that result in faster, shorter-lasting responses.
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What is the role of the pituitary gland in the endocrine system?
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The pituitary gland, often termed the 'master gland', controls various other endocrine glands and regulates vital body functions and general wellbeing.
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Where is the thyroid gland located and what is its primary function?
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The thyroid gland is located in the neck, and its primary function is to regulate metabolism, growth and development, and body temperature by producing thyroid hormones.
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What hormone does the pancreas produce and what is its function?
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The pancreas produces insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells for energy.
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Name two functions of adrenal glands.
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Adrenal glands produce hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline which help control metabolism, immune response, blood pressure, and stress responses.
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What hormone do the testes produce and what is its main role?
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The testes produce testosterone, which is responsible for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics and sperm production.
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Describe how the hypothalamus controls endocrine activity.
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The hypothalamus links the nervous system to the endocrine system via the pituitary gland by releasing hormones that control pituitary hormone release.
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What role do feedback mechanisms play in the endocrine system?
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Feedback mechanisms, such as negative feedback loops, help maintain hormone levels within normal ranges by adjusting hormone production based on the body's needs.
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Give an example of a negative feedback loop in the endocrine system.
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An example is the regulation of blood glucose: High blood glucose levels trigger insulin secretion, which lowers glucose levels, reducing the stimulus for insulin release.
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What is acromegaly and which gland malfunction causes it?
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Acromegaly is caused by excess growth hormone, usually due to a benign tumor of the pituitary gland, leading to enlarged bones and tissues.
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How does diabetes mellitus affect insulin levels?
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In diabetes mellitus, the body either does not produce enough insulin (Type 1) or cannot properly use insulin (Type 2), leading to high blood glucose levels.
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What condition results from hyperthyroidism?
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Hyperthyroidism can cause Graves' disease, which leads to symptoms like weight loss, increased heart rate, and nervousness due to excess thyroid hormone production.
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Name a symptom of hypothyroidism.
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A symptom of hypothyroidism is fatigue, which results from the thyroid gland not producing enough hormones, slowing metabolism.
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What is the role of parathyroid hormone?
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Parathyroid hormone regulates calcium levels in the blood by increasing bone breakdown, enhancing calcium absorption in the intestines and kidneys.
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What hormones do the ovaries produce and what are their roles?
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The ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the female reproductive system and menstrual cycle.
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Which hormone is involved in the 'fight or flight' response and where is it produced?
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Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is involved in the 'fight or flight' response and is produced by the adrenal medulla.
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Describe the role of the hormone glucagon.
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Glucagon, produced by the pancreas, raises blood glucose levels by promoting the breakdown of glycogen to glucose in the liver.
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What causes Addison's disease?
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Addison's disease is caused by insufficient production of steroid hormones by the adrenal glands, leading to fatigue, low blood pressure, and skin darkening.
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How do endocrine disorders usually manifest?
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Endocrine disorders often manifest through imbalances in hormone levels, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or changes in mood and energy levels.
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