Chapter 2 Flashcards
Puberty
The changes in physiology, anatomy, and physiological functioning that develop a person into a mature adult biologically and prepare the body for sexual reproduction.
Endocrine system
A network of glands in the body. Through hormones, the glands coordinate their functioning and affect the development and functioning of the body.
Hormones
Chemicals, released by the glands of the endocrine system, that affects the development and functioning of the body, including development during puberty.
Hypothalamus
The “master gland” located in the lower part of the brain beneath the cortex, that affects a wide range of physiological and psychological functioning and stimulates and regulates the production of hormones by other glands, including the ones involved in the initiation of puberty.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)
Hormone released by the hypothalamus that causes gonadotropins to be released by the pituitary.
Leptin
A protein produced by fat cells, that signals the hypothalamus to initiate the hormonal change of puberty.
Pituitary gland
A gland about half an inch long located at the base of the brain that releases gonadotrophins as part of the body’s preparation for reduction.
Luteinizing hormone (LH)
Stimulates the development of gametes and sex hormones in the ovaries and testes.
Gametes
Cells distinctive to each sex, that are involved in reproduction. (ex. sperm, eggs )
Sex hormones
Androgens and estrogens that cause the development of primary and secondary sex characteristics.
Androgens
Sex hormone that are specifically high in males from puberty onward.
Estradiol
The estrogen most important in pubertal development in girls.
Feedback loop
System of hormones involving the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and the gonads, which monitors and adjusts the levils of sex hormones.
Set point
Optimal levil of sex hormones in teh body.
Peak height velocity
THe point at which the adolescence growth spurt is at its maximum rate.