Chapter 14 Flashcards
How does an endocrine gland work?
It secretes its product directly into blood or lymph
How does an exocrine gland work
Secretes its product into a duct to take the secretions to the site of action
Hormone
Protein or steroid molecule which acts as a chemical messenger. Causes a specific response in a target cell
Target cells
Possess a specific receptor in the cell surface membrane complementary to hormone
Site and size of adrenal glands
3x5cm just on top of each kidney
Adrenal cortex
Outer region of glands. Produces hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone. Controlled by hormones from pituitary gland
Adrenal medulla
Inner region of adrenal glands. Produces non-essential hormones such as adrenaline. Controlled via stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system
Glucocorticoids (AC)
Cortisol - helps regulate metabolism, blood pressure and cardiovascular function
Corticosterone - works with cortisol to regulate immune response and suppress inflammatory actions
Mineralocorticoids (AC)
Aldosterone - controls BP through balance of salt water concentration
Adrenaline (AM)
Increases HR sending blood quickly to the muscles and brain. Raises blood glucose concentration by converting glycogen to glucose in liver
Define steroid hormone
lipid-soluble hormones that pass through the lipid component of the cell membrane and bind to steroid hormone receptors to form hormone-receptor complexes.
