Summary Grade 12 - Human Endocrine System_Terminology and Definitions

1


HUMAN ENDOCRINE SYSTEM: Terminology and Definitions
no Term Functions/Meaning
Endocrine glands secrete their hormones directly into the
1 Endocrine glands bloodstream.

2 Exocrine glands Exocrine glands secrete their chemicals into a duct which
transports the substance to where it is needed.
3 Homeostasis The maintenance of a constant internal environment in the body
4 Oestrogen hormone Sex hormone - primary female

5 Progesterone hormone Sex hormone - primary female, produced mainly in the ovaries
following ovulation each month.
6 PRL - Prolactin hormone Simulates the production of milk in the female mammary glands.
7 FSH - Follicle stimulating hormone Hormone – secreted by the pituitary gland – simulates oogenesis
in the ovary ie. Formation of the eggs.
8 LH - Luteinizing hormone Hormone – secreted by the pituitary gland – simulates ovulation
(release of the egg from ovary & formation of corpus luteum.
9 TSH - Thyroid stimulating hormone Simulates thyroid gland to secrete hormone, thyroxin
10 ACTH - Adrenocorticotropic hormone Simulates the adrenal cortex to secrete the hormones, cortisone
& aldosterone.
ICSH - Interstitial cell stimulating
11 Simulates the testes to secrete testosterone.
hormone