Hormones Flashcard

Chemical messengers that regulate various physiological processes in the body.

Substances that transmit signals between cells and organs, often traveling through the bloodstream.

Water-soluble hormones that cannot cross cell membranes and bind to surface receptors.

Lipid-soluble hormones that can easily cross cell membranes and bind to intracellular receptors.

A hormone produced by the pancreas that lowers blood sugar levels.

A hormone that raises blood sugar levels by promoting glycogen breakdown in the liver.

Known as the "stress hormone," it helps regulate metabolism and the body's response to stress.

A neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness; also a hormone.

A neurotransmitter and hormone involved in mood regulation, motivation, and reward.

A hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates sleep-wake cycles.

A hormone that stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration in humans and animals.

Often referred to as the "love hormone," it plays a key role in bonding and social interactions.

Hormones produced by the thyroid gland that regulate metabolism, energy levels, and growth.

A primary female sex hormone involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and reproductive system.

A hormone that prepares the uterus for pregnancy and regulates the menstrual cycle.

The primary male sex hormone responsible for the development of male reproductive tissues and secondary sexual characteristics.

Known as the "hunger hormone," it stimulates appetite and food intake.

A hormone that signals satiety and helps regulate energy balance by inhibiting hunger.

A hormone released during stress that prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses.

A process where the output of a system regulates its own production; crucial for hormonal balance.

The body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions despite external changes.

A condition that occurs when hormone levels are too high or too low, leading to health issues.

Glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream, such as the pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands.

A brain region that regulates hormonal activity and the body's homeostasis.

Often referred to as the "master gland," it controls various endocrine functions in the body.

A small gland that produces melatonin, regulating sleep patterns.

A gland that produces thyroid hormones, regulating metabolism and energy levels.

Glands located above the kidneys that produce hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.

The ability of a hormone to bind only to its specific receptor on target cells.

Receptors located on the surface of cells that bind to water-soluble hormones.

Receptors located inside the cell that bind to lipid-soluble hormones.

Molecules that help regulate gene expression in response to hormonal signaling.

Molecules that relay signals received by cell-surface receptors to target molecules inside the cell.

The process by which cells increase the number of hormone receptors in response to low hormone levels.

The process by which cells decrease the number of hormone receptors in response to high hormone levels.

The physical, mental, and behavioral changes that follow a 24-hour cycle, largely influenced by hormones.

The process through which hormones communicate with target cells to trigger specific responses.

Hormones like serotonin and cortisol can significantly affect mood and emotional well-being.

Hormones regulate metabolic processes, influencing energy production and usage in the body.

Conditions that result from hormonal imbalances, such as diabetes and hypothyroidism.

Hormones like growth hormone and sex hormones play key roles in physical development and maturation.

Hormones are essential for regulating reproductive processes in both males and females.

Factors such as stress, diet, and sleep can impact hormone levels and overall endocrine function.

Hormone levels change with age, affecting growth, metabolism, and reproductive health.

Certain hormones, like cortisol, can suppress the immune response during prolonged stress.