Hormones Other Than Sex Hormones

key notes:

1. Introduction to Non-Sex Hormones

  • These hormones are not directly involved in reproduction but regulate other vital functions.
  • Secreted by endocrine glands such as the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, and parathyroid glands.

2. Pituitary Hormones (Master Gland)

  • Growth Hormone (GH): Controls growth and development of bones and muscles.
  • Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH): Stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroxine.
  • Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH): Stimulates adrenal glands to produce cortisol.
  • Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH): Regulates water balance in the body by acting on kidneys.

3. Thyroid Hormones

  • Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3): Regulate metabolism, energy production, and growth.
  • Calcitonin: Helps regulate calcium levels in the blood by lowering them.

4. Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

  • Produced by parathyroid glands.
  • Increases calcium levels in the blood by stimulating calcium release from bones.

5. Adrenal Hormones

  • Cortisol: Helps the body respond to stress and regulates metabolism.
  • Aldosterone: Maintains salt and water balance, affecting blood pressure.
  • Adrenaline (Epinephrine): Prepares the body for “fight or flight” response by increasing heart rate and energy levels.

6. Pancreatic Hormones

  • Insulin: Lowers blood sugar levels by helping cells absorb glucose.
  • Glucagon: Raises blood sugar levels by breaking down glycogen into glucose in the liver.

7. Hormones from Other Glands

  • Melatonin (Pineal Gland): Regulates sleep-wake cycles.
  • Erythropoietin (Kidneys): Stimulates red blood cell production.

8. Importance of Hormonal Balance

  • An imbalance can lead to diseases:
    • Hypothyroidism: Low thyroid hormone levels.
    • Hyperthyroidism: Excess thyroid hormone levels.
    • Diabetes: Insufficient insulin production.

9. Role in Homeostasis

  • Hormones work together to maintain internal stability (homeostasis) in the body.

10. Key Functions

  • Growth and development.
  • Regulation of metabolism.
  • Maintenance of blood pressure and water balance.
  • Stress response and energy regulation.

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