principles of endocrinology

Question 1

define endocrine gland

Answer 1

a group of cells which secrete messenger molecules (hormones) directily into the bloodstream

Question 2

define endocrinology

Answer 2

study of endocrine glands and their secretion
define hormonethe bioactive “messenger” molecule secreted by an endocrine gland into the blood i.e. not simply a metabolite or energy substrate

Question 3

define endocrine

Answer 3

relates to hormone’s action on target cells at a distance from source

Question 4

define paracrine

Answer 4

relates to hormone’s action on nearby target cells e.g. within immediate area around source

Question 5

endocrine vs nervous systems (release, effect target, effect time)

Answer 5

endocrine: release of chemical into bloodstream, effect can be on many target cells spread throughout the body, effect will take place over a relatively long time-span (seconds to days); nervous: release of chemical across synapse, effect will be restricted to those target cells actually innervated, effect wil be generated within millseconds

Question 6

classic endocrine glands

Answer 6

pituitary, parathyroids, thyroids, adrenals, pancreas, gonads

Question 7

define neurotransmitter

Answer 7

chemical substance released at pre-synaptic bulb due to a nerve impulse and diffuses across the synapse to cause another impulse in the post-synaptic bulb

Question 8

define neurosecretion

Answer 8

storage, synthesis and release of hormones from neurones