The Endocrine System and Diabetes Mellitus Flashcards
Homeostasis of the internal environment is maintained by:
- The Autonomic Nervous System (can rapidly change internal conditions)
- The Endocrine System (slower, more precise adjustments)
What comprises the endocrine system?
It is made up of glands that are widely separated from each other with no direct links.
Male Endocrine Glands
Pituitary gland (brain) Thyroid gland (neck) Adrenal gland (stomach) Testis (genitalia)
Female Endocrine Glands
Pineal gland (brain)
Thymus (chest)
Pancreas (stomach)
Ovary (genitalia)
What comprises an endocrine gland?
Endocrine glands are made up of secretory cells surrounded by an extensive network of capillaries. This allows effective distribution of hormones from the secretory cells into the bloodstream.
How do hormones function?
By binding to hormone specific receptors in the target cells. The binding acts like a switch altering chemical and metabolic reactions inside the cell. Receptors are found on the surface of and inside the cells.
How does the endocrine system function?
- Variable - a change occurs in a body system like temperature or blood sugar levels.
- Sensor - The system detects the change (receives the information)
- Control center - determines a response (analysis of the received information)
- Effector/Gland - carries out the response through hormone release.
Pancreatic tissue is made up of:
- Exocrine tissues (secrete pancreatic juice –> pancreatic duct–>ampula –> duodenum
- Endocrine cells - Islets of Langerhans, secrete hormones into the blood.
Which two hormones regulate the liver’s maintenance of blood glucose?
- Insulin
2. Glucagon
Function of Insulin
Allows the body to take up glucose from the blood lowering the blood sugar.
Function of Glucagon
Facilitates the release of glucose into the blood.
Two functions of the pancreas
- Endocrine - produces insulin to help regulate blood sugar.
- Exocrine - produces enzymes which help digest food.
How does exercise affect glucose levels?
It reduces them.
Name two common medication types for Type 2 diabetes?
Biguanides
Sulphonylureas
Biguanides
Ex. Metformin
Stops the liver from producing new glucose. Reduces insulin resistance.
Sulphyonylureas
ex. Gliclazide
Stimulates insulin production
NICE recommended tests for diabetics
- Weight - healthy BMI
- Blood pressure
- Smoking status
- HbA1c test yearly
- Urinary albumen
- Serum creatinine
- Cholestoral check yearly
- Eye examinations (yearly)
- Foot screening (at least annually)
Glycogenesis
Conversion of glucose to glycogen
Glyconeogenesis
Creation of new glucose from protein and amino acids.
Glycogenolysis
Breaking down of glycogen into glucose.
