McDowell, G. (2016) ‘Abnormal Pituitary Function’. In: Admed, N. (ed) (2016) Fundamentals of Biomedical Science Clinical Biochemistry. 2nd Edition Oxford University Press. pp 263-283. (21 pages)
Learning objectives
After studying this chapter you should be able to:
- Describe the basic structure and function of the endocrine system
- Explain the mechanisms of hormone action and control of their secretion
- Describe the structure and function of the pituitary gland
- Explain the functions of anterior and posterior pituitary hormones
- Describe the conditions which lead to abnormal hormone production
- Describe and explain the investigation of suspected pituitary dysfunction
Introduction
The endocrine system controls body functions through the action of mediators known as hormones. A hormone is a molecule which is released by an endocrine gland directly into the bloodstream in one part of the body and exerts its effects in other parts. The blood supply circulates the hormone throughout the body. Hormones then exert their effect by binding to receptors on their target cells. The hormones and the glands which secrete them form the endocrine system and the study of diseases associated with the endocrine system is known as endocrinology. This chapter will review the general functions of hormones, their chemical nature, mechanism of action, and regulation, and will then focus on disorders of hormones released by the pituitary gland.
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