Hormonal stimuli

Definition

Hormonal stimuli involve the release of hormones in response to other hormones. This regulatory mechanism ensures coordination and balance within the endocrine system.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hormonal stimuli often involve a chain reaction where one hormone triggers the release of another.
2. The hypothalamus releases hormones that stimulate or inhibit the pituitary gland, demonstrating hormonal stimuli.
3. Hormonal stimuli play a critical role in feedback loops that maintain homeostasis.
4. An example is the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) by the pituitary gland in response to thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) from the hypothalamus.
5. Disruptions in hormonal stimuli can lead to endocrine disorders such as hyperthyroidism or Addison's disease.

Review Questions

Related terms

Hypothalamus:

A region of the brain responsible for releasing hormones that regulate many body functions, including temperature and hunger.

Pituitary Gland:

An endocrine gland located below the hypothalamus; it secretes hormones that regulate various bodily functions.

Feedback Loop: A biological process where the output of a system regulates its own activity, often through negative or positive feedback mechanisms.