Introduction to the Endocrine System definitions Flashcards

A network of glands that release hormones into the bloodstream for whole-body signaling.

Chemical messengers released by glands, traveling through blood to target cells with specific receptors.

Structures specialized for secreting hormones directly into the bloodstream.

A protein on or in a cell that binds to a specific hormone to initiate a response.

A form of signaling where a cell releases a chemical messenger that binds to receptors on its own surface.

A form of signaling where cells release messengers that affect nearby cells within the same tissue.

Water-soluble hormones that bind to receptors on the cell membrane and include epinephrine.

Lipid-soluble hormones derived from cholesterol, traveling bound to proteins, and binding receptors inside cells.

A brain region that regulates homeostasis and links the nervous and endocrine systems.

A gland under the hypothalamus that produces hormones influencing other endocrine glands.

A gland regulating metabolism, located in the neck, producing thyroid hormones.

Glands atop the kidneys that produce hormones like adrenaline, involved in stress response.

An organ with both digestive and endocrine functions, releasing hormones like insulin.

Reproductive organs (ovaries and testes) that produce sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone.

An amino acid-based hormone that is hydrophobic, requiring a transport protein and intracellular receptors.