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Key Hormonal Pathways
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Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis
The HPA axis involves the release of CRH from the hypothalamus, stimulating the pituitary to release ACTH, which in turn stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol. This leads to increased blood glucose and modulation of the immune response.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal (HPG) Axis
This axis starts with GnRH from the hypothalamus. GnRH stimulates the pituitary to release LH and FSH, which target the gonads, resulting in production of sex steroids (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone) and gametogenesis.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid (HPT) Axis
The HPT axis begins with TRH from the hypothalamus, which stimulates TSH release from the pituitary. TSH then stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones T3 and T4, affecting metabolism.
Insulin and Glucose Regulation
Insulin, secreted by pancreatic beta cells, facilitates the uptake of glucose by cells, lowering blood glucose levels. The liver converts excess glucose into glycogen for storage.
Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) Stimulation
ACTH, produced by the pituitary gland, stimulates the adrenal cortex to release glucocorticoids (like cortisol) which help in responding to stress by increasing blood glucose levels.
Growth Hormone (GH) and Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1)
GH is secreted by the pituitary and promotes growth and cell reproduction. It also stimulates the liver to produce IGF-1, which mediates many of the effects of GH.
Calcitonin and Calcium Homeostasis
Calcitonin, secreted by the thyroid gland when calcium levels are high, acts to reduce blood calcium by inhibiting osteoclasts and stimulating calcium uptake by bones.
Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and Calcium Homeostasis
PTH is released by the parathyroid glands in response to low calcium levels, and it increases calcium by stimulating osteoclast activity, reducing calcium loss in urine, and activating vitamin D (to increase intestinal absorption).
Anti-diuretic Hormone (ADH) and Water Balance
ADH, also known as vasopressin, is produced by the hypothalamus and stored in the pituitary. It conserves water by reducing urine volume and is released in response to high blood osmolarity.
Leptin and Appetite Regulation
Leptin is secreted by adipose cells and helps to regulate energy balance by inhibiting hunger, which in turn diminishes fat storage in adipocytes.
Glucagon and Glucose Mobilization
Glucagon, produced by pancreatic alpha cells, promotes the conversion of glycogen to glucose in the liver and the release of glucose into the bloodstream, raising blood glucose levels.
Prolactin and Milk Production
Prolactin is secreted by the pituitary and stimulates breast development and milk production in females. Its secretion is regulated by the hypothalamus.
Erythropoietin (EPO) and Red Blood Cell Production
EPO is produced by the kidneys and stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow in response to low oxygen levels in the blood.
Aldosterone and Sodium Regulation
Aldosterone, produced by the adrenal cortex, acts on the kidneys to conserve sodium, promote water retention, and increase blood pressure.
Melatonin and Circadian Rhythms
Melatonin is secreted by the pineal gland in response to darkness and regulates sleep-wake cycles and circadian rhythms.
Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) to Thyroid Hormone Release
TSH is secreted by the pituitary and stimulates the thyroid gland to release T3 and T4, which increase metabolism in cells.
Estrogens and Menstrual Cycle Regulation
Estrogens, mainly produced by the ovaries, play a key role in regulating the menstrual cycle, promoting the growth of the uterine lining, and facilitating ovum maturation.
Testosterone and Male Secondary Sexual Characteristics
Testosterone, produced primarily in the testes, is responsible for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, such as facial hair growth, increased muscle mass, and deepening of the voice.
Somatostatin Inhibition on Growth Hormone
Somatostatin, produced by the hypothalamus, inhibits the release of growth hormone from the pituitary, thus modulating body growth and metabolism.
Catecholamines and Fight-or-Flight Response
Catecholamines (adrenaline and noradrenaline) are produced by the adrenal medulla and prepare the body for the fight-or-flight response by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose levels in the blood.
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