Exam 1 Flashcards
Study guide
What are the two types of cells based on hormone receptors?
Target cells (with receptors) and non-target cells (no receptors)
Target cells respond to specific hormones due to the presence of receptors, while non-target cells do not respond.
What is paracrine communication?
Local signaling; secretions act on neighboring cells
This type of communication is crucial for local cellular interactions.
What is endocrine communication?
Hormones released into the bloodstream to reach distant targets
This allows for widespread and systemic regulation of physiological processes.
What is neural communication?
Neurotransmitters travel across synapses to adjacent neurons or muscle cells
This form of communication is rapid and specific.
Name the major parts of the endocrine system.
- Hypothalamus
- Pineal Gland
- Anterior Pituitary
- Posterior Pituitary
- Thyroid Gland
- Adrenal Glands
- Thymus
- Pancreas
- Ovaries
- Testes
Each part has distinct roles in hormone production and regulation.
What are the types of hormones?
- Amino Acid Derivatives
- Polypeptides
- Lipid Derivatives
- Eicosanoids
- Steroids
Each type has different structures and functions in the body.
How do water-soluble hormones act?
Bind to membrane receptors → trigger second messenger pathways (e.g., cAMP)
This mechanism allows for rapid cellular responses.
How do lipid-soluble hormones act?
Enter the cell → bind intracellular/nuclear receptors → alter gene transcription
This mechanism typically leads to longer-lasting effects on cellular function.
What is a synergistic hormone interaction?
Hormones amplify each other’s effects (e.g., FSH and testosterone on spermatogenesis)
This interaction enhances physiological responses.
What is negative feedback in hormone regulation?
Hormone release diminishes its own production (e.g., T3/T4 feedback on TSH)
This mechanism helps maintain homeostasis.
What is the hypophyseal/pituitary axis?
Includes the portal system, infundibulum, and sella turcica
This structure connects the hypothalamus to the pituitary gland.
List the hormones produced by the anterior pituitary.
- Prolactin (PRL)
- Growth Hormone (GH)
- ACTH
- TSH
- FSH
- LH
Each hormone has specific target organs and effects.
What is the function of ADH (Vasopressin)?
Water reabsorption in kidneys, increases blood volume/pressure
This hormone plays a crucial role in fluid balance.
What does parathyroid hormone (PTH) do?
Raises blood calcium by stimulating bone breakdown, increasing renal Ca²⁺ reabsorption, activating vitamin D
PTH is essential for calcium homeostasis.
What are the functions of the islets of Langerhans?
- Alpha cells: Glucagon (raises blood glucose)
- Beta cells: Insulin (lowers blood glucose)
- Delta cells: Somatostatin (inhibits insulin & glucagon release)
These cells regulate glucose metabolism.
What are the main functions of blood?
- Transportation
- Defense
- Maintenance of homeostasis
Blood plays a vital role in sustaining life.
What are the basic components of plasma?
- Water
- Proteins (albumin, globulins, fibrinogen)
- Electrolytes
Plasma is the liquid component of blood.
What are the formed elements of blood?
- Erythrocytes (RBCs)
- Leukocytes (WBCs)
- Platelets
These elements are crucial for oxygen transport, immune response, and clotting.
What is the life cycle of erythrocytes?
Production in red bone marrow, destruction in spleen/liver, lifespan ~120 days
This cycle is essential for maintaining healthy blood levels.
What is hemoglobin’s role in oxygen binding?
Each hemoglobin molecule has 4 heme groups, each with an iron that binds O₂
This structure is critical for oxygen transport in the blood.
What is sickle cell anemia?
Genetic disorder causing abnormal hemoglobin → RBCs deform (“sickle” shape)
This condition can lead to various health complications.
What is the sequence of reactions in hemostasis?
- Vascular spasm
- Platelet plug formation
- Coagulation
This sequence is vital for stopping bleeding.
What are the structural differences between arteries and veins?
- Arteries: Thicker walls, more elastic
- Veins: Thinner walls, valves present
These differences reflect their distinct functions in the circulatory system.
What are the three layers of a blood vessel’s wall?
- Tunica intima
- Tunica media
- Tunica adventitia
Each layer has specific roles in vessel function and structure.