Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

16. The Endocrine System

Hormone Review Table

Anatomy & Physiology

16. The Endocrine System

Hormone Review Table

Previous problemNext problem

2:57 minutes

Problem 15

Textbook Question

Name two endocrine-producing glands (or regions) that are important in the stress response, and explain why they are important.

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the two primary endocrine-producing glands involved in the stress response: the adrenal glands and the hypothalamus.

Explain the role of the adrenal glands: The adrenal glands consist of two regions, the adrenal medulla and the adrenal cortex. The adrenal medulla releases catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine) during the 'fight or flight' response, while the adrenal cortex produces glucocorticoids (like cortisol) that help regulate metabolism, immune response, and energy availability during prolonged stress.

Describe the role of the hypothalamus: The hypothalamus is a key regulator of the stress response. It releases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH then signals the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol, a critical hormone for managing stress.

Discuss the importance of these glands: The adrenal glands and hypothalamus work together to ensure the body can respond effectively to both acute and chronic stress. The hypothalamus initiates the stress response, while the adrenal glands execute the physiological changes needed to adapt to stressors.

Highlight the physiological significance: These glands are essential for maintaining homeostasis during stress by regulating heart rate, blood pressure, energy metabolism, and immune function, ensuring the body can cope with challenges effectively.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above

Video duration:

Play a video:

Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Adrenal Glands

The adrenal glands, located on top of each kidney, play a crucial role in the stress response by producing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Cortisol helps regulate metabolism and immune response, while adrenaline prepares the body for 'fight or flight' by increasing heart rate and energy availability. Their coordinated action is essential for managing stress and maintaining homeostasis.

Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis

The HPA axis is a complex set of interactions between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands that regulates the body's response to stress. When faced with stress, the hypothalamus releases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), stimulating the pituitary to secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which in turn prompts the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. This feedback loop is vital for adapting to stressors.

Sympathetic Nervous System

The sympathetic nervous system is part of the autonomic nervous system that activates the body's 'fight or flight' response during stressful situations. It triggers the release of adrenaline from the adrenal medulla, leading to physiological changes such as increased heart rate, heightened alertness, and energy mobilization. This rapid response is essential for immediate survival in threatening situations.

Watch next

Master Review of Major Hormones with a bite sized video explanation from Bruce Bryan

Start learning

Related Videos

Related Practice

Textbook Question

The major stimulus for the release of parathyroid hormone is:

a. Hormonal

b. Humoral

c. Neural

936

views

Textbook Question

Which two hormones are released by the kidneys, and what is the importance of each hormone?

524

views

Textbook Question

More than one choice may apply. The major endocrine organs of the body

a. Tend to be very large organs

b. Are closely connected with each other

c. All contribute to the same function (digestion)

d. Tend to lie near the midline of the body

808

views

Textbook Question

Describe the body location of each of the following endocrine organs: anterior pituitary, pineal gland, thymus, pancreas, ovaries, testes. Then, for each organ, name its hormones and their effect(s) on body processes. Finally, for each hormone, list the important results of its hypersecretion or hyposecretion.

689

views

Textbook Question

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

Excess secretion of thyroid hormones produces weight gain, cold intolerance, and slow heart rate.

540

views

Textbook Question

The hormone that directly stimulates the hunger center is:

a. Ghrelin

b. Cholecystokinin

c. Insulin