Endocrine and Neuroendocrine Signaling Comprehensive Study Guide
Section 1: Signaling Types and Systems
• What does the endocrine system consist of?
o Answer: Glands, organs, and tissues responsible for the regulation
and coordination of all other body systems.
• Which signaling type is involved in long-term, regulatory mechanisms
including growth and sexual development?
o Answer: Endocrine signaling.
• Which signaling type is involved in local signaling where the ligand
diffuses across a synapse?
o Answer: Synaptic signaling.
• Which signaling type involves local signaling where the ligand is not
transported through blood but relies on diffusion into local tissue spaces
within the same organ?
o Answer: Paracrine signaling.
• Which signaling type involves a cell releasing a ligand that is also the
target cell of that same ligand?
o Answer: Autocrine signaling.
• Which signaling type involves long-distance signaling where ligands are
manufactured and stored within neurons?
o Answer: Neuroendocrine signaling.
• Identify the forms of local signaling:
o Answer: Synaptic, paracrine, and autocrine signaling.
• Identify the forms of long-distance signaling:
, o Answer: Endocrine and neuroendocrine signaling.
• What is the name of the ligands used in the endocrine system?
o Answer: Hormones.
• What is the name of the ligand released into the external environment to
mark territory or attract mates?
o Answer: Pheromones.
Section 2: Hormone Classes and Chemical Properties
• What are the two major classes of hormones?
o Answer: Hydrophilic (water-soluble) and hydrophobic (lipid-soluble).
• Which of the following statements is/are true of polypeptide hormones?
(Multiple Choice)
o A. They bind to the GPCRs of the target cell.
o B. They are lipid-soluble derivatives of cholesterol.
o C. They are derivatives of the amino acid tyrosine.
o D. They are comprised of short chains of amino acids.
o Correct Answer: A and D.
• Each of the following statements is true of steroid hormones EXCEPT:
(Multiple Choice)
o A. They are water-soluble.
o B. They are derivatives of cholesterol.
o C. They bind to the intracellular receptor of the target cell.
o D. Cortisol is an example.
o Correct Answer: A.