Lecture 12- Endocrine System I Flashcards
A(n) __________ is any member of a class of signaling molecules in multicellular organisms, that are transported to distant organisms to regulate physiology and/or behavior
Hormone
Hormone
Chemical signaling molecule responsible for regulation. Messenger of endocrine system.
Endocrine Signaling
Hormones are secreted into body fluids, usually blood. The hormones bind to target cells. All cells are exposed, only those with the correct receptor respond.
Receptors
Large proteins or glycoproteins on/in target cells. Recognize and bind to specific hormones. Responsible for specificity of endocrine system. Continually synthesized and degraded.
Hormone up for long period ->
Hormone down for long period->
Receptor down-regulated
Receptor up-regulated
Intercellular communication is classified by:
- The type of secreting cell
- The route taken by signal to target
How does endocrine signaling work?
Endocrine cells secrete hormones into extracellular fluid. These hormones diffuse into the bloodstream and travel to target cells.
Paracrine & Autocrine Signaling
Cells produce and secrete local regulators. Regulators reach target cells by diffusion. Short distance, very quick.
Paracrine: Target cells near secreting cell
Autocrine: Target is self
Where are the target cells located for Paracrine and Autocrine signaling?
Paracrine: Target cells near secreting cell
Autocrine: Target is self
(In both, local regulators produced by cell have a short distance to travel)
What is a key difference between endocrine signaling and paracrine & autocrine signaling?
Endocrine signaling-> endocrine cells secrete HORMONES
Para & Autocrine-> cells secrete LOCAL REGULATORS
Also, short distance for paracrine & autocrine signaling, longer distance for endocrine signaling
Synaptic Signaling
Involves neurons- basic unit of nervous system
Neurons form synapses with target cells -> use neurotransmitters that diffuse across synapses, bind receptors on target cell
Neuroendocrine Signaling
Neurosecretory cells- specialized neurons, secrete neurohormones
These neurohormones diffuse from nerve cell endings into bloodstream.
Signaling by Pheromones
Chemicals released into external environment, target other individuals of same species.
Functions:
- Define territory
- Warn of predators
- Attract mates
Pathway depends on what?
Type of signal and secreting cell
What are local regulators made of? Where are they found?
Paracrine & Autocrine regulators
Made of modified fatty acids
Contain long hydrocarbon chains
Signaling Molecules (examples)
Local regulators (Para & Autocrine)
Gases- NO
Polypeptides- Cytokines, growth factors