Endocrine System (Physiology)
Overview of the Endocrine System
1. What is the primary function of the endocrine system? - Answer: The endocrine system primarily functions to coordinate various body systems and ensure
the maintenance of homeostasis.
2. How does the endocrine system differ ...
1. What is the primary function of the endocrine system?
- Answer: The endocrine system primarily functions to coordinate various body systems and ensure
the maintenance of homeostasis.
2. How does the endocrine system differ from the nervous system?
- Answer: While the endocrine system collaborates with the nervous system, it operates as a more
gradual communication network, compared to the rapid signals transmitted by the nervous system.
Structures and Components
3. What are endocrine glands?
- Answer: Endocrine glands are specialized glands within the endocrine system that contain cells
capable of secretion. These secretory cells release hormones into the extracellular fluid, allowing them
to diffuse into the bloodstream.
4. What are hormones?
- Answer: Hormones are chemical messengers synthesized primarily by endocrine glands, produced in
one location and exerting effects on different tissues.
5. What are the major endocrine glands?
- Answer: The primary endocrine glands include the Pituitary, Thyroid, Parathyroid glands, Adrenals,
and Pineal gland.
6. Can you name some organs that contain endocrine tissue?
- Answer: Certain organs with endocrine tissue include the Hypothalamus, Thymus, Pancreas, Ovaries,
Testes, Heart, Placenta, Stomach, Intestines, and Kidneys.
, Hormonal Action and Target Interaction
7. What are target cells and how do they relate to hormones?
- Answer: Target cells are specific cells that recognize and respond to hormones due to their chemical
structure. These cells interact with hormones and are influenced by them.
8. What role do receptors play in hormonal action?
- Answer: Receptors are protein molecules located on the surface of target cells that bind to specific
hormones, determining the cell's response to that hormone.
9. How does the chemical composition of a hormone impact its action?
- Answer: The chemical makeup of a hormone dictates how it can interact with and influence target
cells.
Types of Hormones
10. What are the two main categories of hormones based on their solubility?
- Answer: The main categories of hormones are:
- Lipid-soluble Hormones
- Water-soluble Hormones
11. What are steroids in terms of hormonal makeup?
- Answer: Steroids are a type of lipid-soluble hormone derived from cholesterol, primarily secreted by
the ovaries, testes, and adrenal glands.
Hormonal Mechanisms of Action
12. How do lipid-soluble hormones function within target cells?
- Answer: Lipid-soluble hormones easily cross the target cell's plasma membrane. Once inside, they
combine with receptor molecules, and the hormone-receptor complex binds to DNA in the nucleus to
activate specific genes, initiating protein synthesis.
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