Hormones and Pituitary Gland Overview

Which of the following is NOT a function of testosterone?

What is the name of the bone that contains the sella turcica?

Which of the following hormones is responsible for water reabsorption in the kidneys?

Which of the following hormones is responsible for the development of egg cells?

Which of the following is NOT a phase of the menstrual cycle?

Which of the following statements about estrogen is TRUE?

What is the chemical formula for testosterone?

What is the name of the process that refers to the onset of menstruation?

Hormones

Hormones are chemical messengers essential for homeostasis, including estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. The pituitary gland, located in the brain, has anterior and posterior parts with distinct hormone functions, comprising the optic chiasm, hypothalamus, infundibulum, and sella turcica.

Key hormones include:

Growth hormone (GH) - tissue growth
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) - affects the thyroid
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) - affects the adrenal gland
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) - regulate reproductive organs
Prolactin (PRL) - stimulates breast milk
Oxytocin - aids uterine contractions
Testosterone - key male hormone
Estrogen - regulates reproductive system and menstrual cycle

Menstrual Cycle

The cycle consists of: Menstruation (3-7 days), Follicular Phase (follicle development), Ovulation (egg release), and Luteal Phase (maintains uterine lining).

Key Terms

Menstruation - shedding of uterine lining
Menarche - onset of menstruation (ages 11-15)
Menopause - cessation of menstruation (ages 45-55)

An egg is released approximately every 28 days.

Explore the essential role of hormones as chemical messengers in the body, including key hormones such as testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone. Understand the functions of the pituitary gland and how various hormones influence growth, metabolism, and reproduction. Test your knowledge on these critical aspects of human biology.