Hormones and the Endocrine System
Consider the following hormones and their role in the workings of the endocrine system:
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Where the Hormone is Produced
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Hormone(s) Secreted
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Hormone Function
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Adrenal Glands
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Aldosterone
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Regulates salt and water balance
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Adrenal Glands
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Corticosteroid
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Controls key functions in the body; acts as an anti-inflammatory; maintains blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and muscle strength; regulates salt and water balance
|
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Pituitary Gland
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Antidiuretic hormone (vasopressin)
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Affects water retention in kidneys; controls blood pressure
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Pituitary Gland
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Corticotropin
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Controls production and secretion of adrenal cortex hormones
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|
Pituitary Gland
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Growth hormone
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Affects growth and development; stimulates protein production
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Pituitary Gland
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Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
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Controls reproductive functioning and sexual characteristics
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Pituitary Gland
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Oxytocin
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Stimulates contraction of uterus and milk ducts in the breast
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Pituitary Gland
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Prolactin
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Initiates and maintains milk production in breasts
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Pituitary Gland
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Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
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Stimulates the production and secretion of thyroid hormones
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Kidneys
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Renin and Angiotensin
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Controls blood pressure
|
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Kidneys
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Erythropoietin
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Affects red blood cell (RBC) production
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Pancreas
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Glucagon
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Raises blood sugar levels
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Pancreas
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Insulin
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Lowers blood sugar levels; stimulates metabolism of glucose, protein, and fat
|
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Ovaries
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Estrogen
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Affects development of female sexual characteristics and reproductive development
|
|
Ovaries
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Progesterone
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Stimulates the lining of the uterus for fertilization; prepares the breasts for milk production
|
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Parathyroid Glands
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Parathyroid hormone
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Affects bone formation and excretion of calcium and phosphorus
|
|
Thyroid Gland
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Thyroid hormone
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Affects growth, maturation, and metabolism
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Online Source:
Hormone Foundation
http://www.hormone.org/Endo101/page2.cfm
Online Medical Reviewer:
Foster, Sara M. RN, MPH
Online Medical Reviewer:
Gaskin, Kelley RN, MSN, CPNP
Date Last Reviewed:
10/8/2009
Date Last Modified:
12/3/2008