Endocrine System
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Questions and Answers

A patient presents with symptoms of growth abnormalities. If diagnostic tests reveal a dysfunction in the hypothalamus affecting growth hormone regulation, which of the following scenarios is most likely?

  • The posterior pituitary will compensate by releasing growth hormone directly into the bloodstream, maintaining normal growth patterns.
  • The balance between GHRH and GHIH release will be disrupted, leading to either excessive or insufficient growth hormone release by the anterior pituitary. (correct)
  • The anterior pituitary will be directly stimulated to release excessive amounts of growth hormone, bypassing the need for GHRH.
  • The anterior pituitary will be unresponsive to both GHRH and GHIH, resulting in a complete absence of growth hormone production.

A researcher is studying the effects of a novel drug that selectively inhibits the action of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). Which of the following physiological changes would be the MOST expected outcome in the subjects treated with this drug?

  • Increased levels of both ACTH and cortisol secretion.
  • Increased levels of ACTH and decreased cortisol secretion.
  • Decreased levels of ACTH and increased cortisol secretion.
  • Decreased levels of both ACTH and cortisol secretion. (correct)

A new mother is experiencing difficulties with milk ejection during breastfeeding. Which hormonal imbalance is MOST likely contributing to this issue?

  • Excessive secretion of growth hormone inhibiting hormone (GHIH) from the hypothalamus.
  • Insufficient production of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) by the hypothalamus.
  • Overproduction of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by the anterior pituitary.
  • Impaired release of oxytocin from the posterior pituitary. (correct)

A patient is diagnosed with a condition that causes excessive water retention. Which of the following hormonal imbalances could be the primary cause of this condition?

<p>Excessive secretion of ADH (antidiuretic hormone). (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher aims to study the isolated effects of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) on the anterior pituitary. Which experimental setup would BEST achieve this objective?

<p>Administering GnRH directly to the anterior pituitary and measuring the release of hormones that affect the gonads. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the adrenal gland ensure efficient hormonal delivery?

<p>Through a network of superior, middle, and inferior adrenal arteries for ample blood supply. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a characteristic of hormone action in the endocrine system?

<p>Hormone levels are maintained at consistently high concentrations for immediate response. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If the zone glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex were damaged, which physiological imbalance would most likely occur?

<p>Disrupted electrolyte and water balance. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the relationship between the adrenal cortex zones and their functions?

<p>The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids, while the zona fasciculata produces glucocorticoids. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of cortisol, a glucocorticoid produced in the zona fasciculata?

<p>Maintaining glucose homeostasis through various metabolic processes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the endocrine system ensure hormones act on specific target cells?

<p>Specific target cells have receptors that bind to corresponding hormones. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following would likely occur if the adrenal gland's blood supply was significantly compromised?

<p>Dysregulation of mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid production. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios would most directly result from increased dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) production in the zona reticularis after menopause?

<p>Increased estrogen levels due to the conversion of androgens in peripheral tissues. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with symptoms suggesting a hormonal imbalance. If a physician suspects an issue within the hypothalamus affecting multiple endocrine functions, which of the following would be the most comprehensive initial diagnostic approach?

<p>Assessing a broad panel of anterior pituitary hormones, alongside hypothalamic releasing and inhibiting hormones. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does cortisol regulate glucose metabolism during prolonged stress, and what is the potential trade-off of this regulation?

<p>Cortisol elevates blood glucose by promoting gluconeogenesis, potentially impairing insulin sensitivity over time. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances would the hypothalamus primarily release prolactin-inhibiting hormone (PIH) rather than prolactin-releasing hormone (PRH)?

<p>When an individual is not breastfeeding, to suppress prolactin secretion. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a patient with Cushing's syndrome (chronic high cortisol levels), which of the following metabolic changes is LEAST likely to be observed?

<p>Increased muscle mass due to enhanced protein synthesis. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is investigating the effects of a novel drug on adrenal hormone synthesis. If the drug selectively inhibits the enzyme responsible for converting androgens to estrogen in peripheral tissues, what would be the expected hormonal profile in post-menopausal women?

<p>Markedly elevated androgen levels with significantly reduced circulating estrogens. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During a stressful event, the adrenal medulla releases catecholamines. Besides increasing heart rate and blood pressure, what is another significant metabolic effect of these hormones relevant to the 'fight or flight' response?

<p>Promoting glycogenolysis in the liver to increase blood glucose levels. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a patient has damage to the hypothalamus that impairs its ability to regulate body temperature, which of the following compensatory mechanisms would be LEAST effective?

<p>Relying solely on the adrenal medulla to release hormones that directly control body temperature. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason cortisol is often referred to as the 'stress hormone,' considering its broad range of effects on the body?

<p>It enables the body to maintain homeostasis by ensuring energy supply and managing physiological responses during stress. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with Addison's disease, resulting in decreased cortisol production. Which of the following hormonal changes would be expected as a consequence of the body's compensatory mechanisms?

<p>Increased ACTH secretion due to reduced negative feedback inhibition. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Endocrine Gland

A cluster of specialized cells that create and release hormones into the bloodstream.

Hormone

Chemical released into the bloodstream, affecting target cells with matching receptors.

Hormone Action

Stimulate or inhibit cell activity by binding to target cells.

Adrenal Gland Location

Sits atop each kidney, near the inferior vena cava (right) and aorta (left).

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Adrenal Cortex

Outer layer of the adrenal gland

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Zona Glomerulosa

Outermost layer of the adrenal cortex; produces mineralocorticoids like aldosterone.

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Zona Fasciculata

Thickest layer of the adrenal cortex; produces glucocorticoids like cortisol.

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Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone (TRH)

A hormone released by the hypothalamus that causes the anterior pituitary to release thyrotropin-stimulating hormone (TSH).

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Corticotropin Releasing Hormone (CRH)

A hormone released by the hypothalamus that stimulates the anterior pituitary to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).

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GHRH/GHIH

Hormones secreted by the hypothalamus affecting growth hormone (GH) release from the anterior pituitary.

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Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH)

A hormone released by the hypothalamus that stimulates the anterior pituitary to release hormones that affect the gonads.

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ADH (Vasopressin)

Increases water reabsorption in the kidneys, regulating body water balance.

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Zona Reticularis

Innermost layer of the adrenal cortex; produces androgens like DHEA.

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Hypothalamus

Gland at the base of brain that regulates body temperature, water balance, thirst, hunger, sexual behavior and other hormones.

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Hypothalamic Hormones

Hormones secreted by the hypothalamus to stimulate or inhibit the release of hormones from the anterior pituitary.

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Prolactin

Hormone that stimulates milk production in breast tissue.

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PRH (Prolactin Releasing Hormone)

Hormone from hypothalamus that stimulates prolactin release.

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PIH (Prolactin Inhibiting Hormone)

Hormone from the hypothalamus that inhibits prolactin release.

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Adrenal Medulla

Central part of the adrenal gland that produces catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine).

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Catecholamines

Hormones (epinephrine and norepinephrine) produced by the adrenal medulla, involved in the 'fight or flight' response.

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Cortisol

Hormone from the adrenal cortex that helps the body respond to stress and maintain balance; affects metabolism and the immune system.

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Gluconeogenesis

Synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, like amino acids and glycerol.

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Study Notes

  • The endocrine system consists of specialized cells synthesizing and releasing hormones into the bloodstream.
  • Hormones circulate to target cells with specific receptors, stimulating or inhibiting cellular activity

Adrenal Glands

  • Located on top of each kidney, with the right gland near the inferior vena cava and the left gland near the aorta
  • Supplied by superior, middle, and inferior adrenal arteries to ensure efficient hormone delivery
  • Divided into the outer cortex and inner medulla

Hormone Release & Function

  • Hormones are released in small bursts when triggered, matching stimulus strength, and control reactions by binding to target cells.
  • Hormone levels fluctuate within a normal range, eventually breaking down in the liver or kidney
  • They exit the body through feces or urine.
  • Negative feedback loops regulate hormone secretion.

Hypothalamus & Pituitary

  • Located at the brain's base, the hypothalamus is above the pituitary gland and below the thalamus.
  • It receives information from throughout the brain
  • Nuclei release hormones

Hypothalamus Regulation

  • Body temperature.
  • Water balance
  • Energy production
  • Thirst
  • Hunger
  • Sexual behavior

Zone layers

  • Zona Glomerulosa: outermost layer, produces mineralocorticoids like aldosterone, increasing Na+ reabsorption and potassium excretion
  • Crucial for electrolyte and water balance.
  • Zona Fasciculata: thickest layer, produces glucocorticoids like cortisol and corticosterone, maintaining glucose levels
  • Cortisol is involved in glucose, protein, and fat metabolism and responds to ACTH.
  • Zona Reticularis: innermost layer, produces androgens contributing to secondary sexual characteristics during puberty
  • In females, androgens convert to estrogen in peripheral tissues post-menopause.

Adrenal Medulla

  • The central part of adrenal gland
  • Produces catecholamines: epinephrine and norepinephrine.
  • Hormones mediate fight-or-flight responses.

Cortisol

  • Made in the adrenal cortex
  • Known as the "stress hormone"
  • Maintains balance and helps the body respond to stress
  • Raises blood glucose by promoting gluconeogenesis in the liver.
  • Protein Catabolism: Breaks down muscle proteins for gluconeogenesis.
  • Fat Metabolism: Promotes fat breakdown for energy.
  • Fat Redistribution: Moves fat to the face and abdomen from the limbs.
  • Energy Mobilization: Ensures energy supply during stress or fasting, prioritizing glucose for the brain

Hypothalamus Hormones

  • Prolactin releasing hormone (PRH)/prolactin inhibiting hormone (PIH): Releases prolactin from the anterior pituitary, stimulating breast tissue to make milk
  • During non-breastfeeding, the hypothalamus releases hormone to inhibit prolactin release.
  • Thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH): The hypothalamus releases hormone to the anterior pituitary
  • Causes the anterior pituitary to release thyrotropin stimulating hormone which affects the thyroid
  • Corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH): The hypothalamus releases this which stimulates the anterior pituitary to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
  • ACTH releases cortisol which is in response to stress
  • Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone/Growth Hormone Inhibiting Hormone: GHRH stimulates the anterior pituitary to release growth hormone, while GHIH inhibits GH release.
  • Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone: GnRH is released by the hypothalamus
  • GnRH stimulates the anterior pituitary to release hormones affecting the gonads.

Pituitary Gland

  • Posterior Pituitary releases two hormones:
  • Oxytocin: stimulates uterine contractions and promotes milk ejection during breastfeeding
  • It is known as the 'bonding hormone' from hugging someone
  • ADH: Regulates body water balance by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys
  • So a lot of ADH = less urine
  • Not a lot = more urine

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Description

Explore the endocrine system including adrenal glands' location, blood supply, and hormone release mechanisms. Understand how hormones function, fluctuate, and are regulated via feedback loops. Discover the role of the hypothalamus and pituitary glands.

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