BIOCHEMISTRY - Main Regulators and Biological Fluids of the Human Body - 2016

2. HORMONES

2.3. Biochemical Mechanisms Regulating Hormone Production

1. Endocrine glands are innervated, receiving impulses from the Central Nervous system that either enhance or inhibit hormone activity. In turn, Hormones affect the peripheral nerve endings of Organs and transmit signals back to the CNS.

2. The activity of endocrine glands is regulated by certain metabolic products via a feedback mechanism.

For instance, if Blood glucose levels exceed the normal range, metabolic centers in the central nervous system are reflexively stimulated, sending impulses via the Vagus nerve to the Pancreas to increase Insulin production. Increased Synthesis and Secretion of insulin rapidly reduce blood sugar levels back to normal. If blood glucose drops further below normal (with insulin levels exceeding baseline), a new signal is sent to the CNS and subsequently to the pancreas, halting insulin synthesis.

3. The activity of endocrine glands is regulated by tropic hormones secreted by the Pituitary Gland, including Growth Hormone (GH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Endocrine glands ensure the production and release of hormones into the bloodstream in accordance with the physiological needs of the body.