Histology of Endocrine Tissues

Question 1

Function of the Endocrine System?

Answer 1

Major control system of the human body

elicits its effects via the secretion of hormones

Question 2

How are endocrine tissues categorised?

Answer 2

• Glands that secrete hormones as their primary roles

- Organs that have a secondary endocrine function

Question 3

What is the function of the Thyroid Gland?

Answer 3

produces hormones of 2 types

1 - iodine-containing hormones (T3 and T4)

2 - calcitonin which regulates the blood calcium levels in conjunction with parathyroid hormone.

thyroid hormone regulates the basal metabolic rate and has an important influence on growth and maturation

Question 4

Function of calcitonin?

Answer 4

lowers blood calcium levels by inhibiting the rate of decalcification of bone via osteoclastic resorption and by stimulating osteoblastic activity.

Question 5

Describe the structure of the thyroid gland.

Answer 5

rings of cells with a central lumen

rings of cells surrounded by a single layer of cuboidal epithelial cells - produce thyroglobulin

Question 6

Explain the function of the Adrenal Gland

Answer 6

comprises an outer cortex region and an inner medullary region

adrenal cortex secretes steroid hormones

Question 7

What 3 classes can the adrenal steroid hormones be divided into?

Answer 7

mineralocorticoids
glucocorticoids
sex hormones