Endocrine System Flashcards
What is the role of the hypothalamus in the endocrine system?
The hypothalamus links the nervous system and the endocrine system. It secretes hormones that stimulate or suppress the release of hormones in the pituitary gland, and controls water balance, sleep, temperature, appetite, and blood pressure.
What are hormones and how do they function?
Hormones are chemical messengers produced by glands in the endocrine system that travel through the bloodstream to target cells, influencing various bodily functions
What is homeostasis?
Homeostasis is the process of maintaining a constant internal environment, keeping factors like temperature, blood sugar, glucose, and fluid balance within a narrow, optimal range despite external changes.
What are feedback systems in relation to temperature, water balance, and blood sugar?
Feedback systems regulate physiological processes such as temperature, water balance, and blood sugar levels, ensuring stability in the internal environment.
What is the difference between endothermic and ectothermic animals?
Endothermic animals, like mammals and birds, generate their own body heat internally to maintain a stable temperature, while ectothermic animals, like reptiles and fish, rely on external sources to regulate their body temperature.
How can feedback loops and endocrine pathways be interpreted and constructed?
Feedback loops and endocrine pathways can be interpreted and constructed by analyzing the interactions between hormones and their target cells, as well as the regulatory mechanisms involved.
