Endocrine System Gland Quiz

Endocrine Glands: Thyroid, Parathyroid, Adrenal and Pancreas

• The thyroid gland is located in the neck and produces thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) that regulate metabolic rate and tissue growth.
• The parafollicular cells of the thyroid gland produce calcitonin, which lowers blood calcium levels by promoting calcium uptake in bones and excretion in urine.
• The parathyroid gland, located on the thyroid, produces parathyroid hormone (PTH) that raises blood calcium levels by stimulating calcium release from bones, calcium reabsorption in kidneys, and vitamin D activation.
• The adrenal glands are located on top of each kidney and have two regions: the cortex and medulla.
• The adrenal cortex produces three types of steroid-based hormones: mineralocorticoids that regulate electrolyte concentration, gonadocorticoids that produce sex hormones, and cortisol that increases nutrient levels and has anti-inflammatory effects.
• The adrenal medulla produces adrenaline and noradrenaline that maintain the long-term effects of the sympathetic nervous system such as increased heart rate, blood flow to skeletal muscles, and glucose levels.
• The pancreas is an endocrine and exocrine gland located in the abdomen.
• The pancreatic islets contain alpha cells that produce glucagon, which raises blood glucose levels by promoting glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis.
• The pancreatic islets also contain beta cells that produce insulin, which lowers blood glucose levels by promoting glucose uptake in peripheral tissues and storage in the liver and adipose tissue.
• The liver and kidneys can uptake glucose without insulin.
• Insulin and glucagon work together to maintain blood glucose homeostasis.
• Hormones produced by these glands are regulated by feedback mechanisms involving the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.

Test your knowledge on the endocrine system's major glands - thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, and pancreas. This quiz covers the functions and hormones produced by each gland, as well as their role in maintaining blood glucose and calcium levels. Challenge yourself and see how well you understand the complexities of the endocrine system!