Endocrinology is defined as the study of how chemical messenger molecules, referred to as hormones, influence physiological processes. By definition, a hormone is a signaling molecule that is released into the bloodstream, where the hormone can then travel to distant target cells and tissues within the body. Along with the nervous system, the hormones of the endocrine system provide an important means by which information travels within the body. Test your basic knowledge of the endocrine system by taking this simple quiz.
(1) This hormone is synthesized and released by the heart.
(2) When considering hormone-receptor interactions, the dissociation constant (Kd) is related to the affinity with which the hormone binds to its receptor. In general, a low numerical value of Kd indicates __________ affinity of hormone-receptor interaction.
(3) When considering hormone-receptor interactions, the dissociation constant (Kd) is related to the affinity with which the hormone binds to its receptor. In general, a high numerical value of Kd indicates __________ affinity of hormone-receptor interaction.
(4) When considering hormone-receptor interactions, the dissociation constant (Kd) refers to the hormone concentration at which __________ of the receptor binding sites are bound (i.e., occupied) by the hormone.
(5) In general, for any given hormone, the resting plasma hormone concentration is __________ than the dissociation constant (Kd) for the hormone and its receptor.