Major Endocrine Glands (Pituitary, Thyroid, Adrenal, Pancreas, Gonads)
Start with the big picture
The lesson begins with the pituitary, distinguishing its anterior and posterior divisions, their developmental origins, and their relationships with the hypothalamus. It then examines thyroid follicles and C cells, thyroid hormone synthesis, and the effects of T3, T4, and calcitonin. The adrenal section compares the hormone-producing cortical zones with the sympathetic-responsive medulla. Pancreatic islets are organized by cell type and hormone, with insulin and glucagon linked to opposing effects on blood glucose. Finally, the gonads are considered within the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Across these glands, the topic emphasizes regulation, including feedback from target hormones and other signals that influence secretion.
What you'll learn
- Distinguish the anterior and posterior pituitary by origin, hormones, and relationship to the hypothalamus.
- Describe thyroid cell types, hormone synthesis, and the roles of T3, T4, and calcitonin.
- Compare adrenal cortical zones with the hormone-secreting adrenal medulla.
- Identify pancreatic islet cell types and relate insulin and glucagon to blood glucose regulation.
- Explain how the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis regulates gonadal hormone production.
Continue your study
Work through the complete notes and reinforce the topic with the study tools available in the full lesson.
