Glucocorticoid synthesis and regulation — Flashcards

Flashcard 1: At high concentrations, cortisol can bind to _____ receptors

Answer: mineralocorticoid (aldosterone)

Flashcard 2: Which zones of the adrenal cortex does ACTH act on to increase steroid hormone synthesis? _____

Answer: All three zones

Flashcard 3: Glucocorticoids have a _____ effect on peripheral skeletal muscle (anabolic/catabolic)

Answer: catabolic

Flashcard 4: Corticosteroids are important for fetal _____ production and overall lung development

Answer: surfactant

Flashcard 5: What is the result of the dexamethasone suppression test in a normal patient?_____

Answer: Low-dose dexamethasone inhibits ACTH secretion and consequently cortisol secretion

Flashcard 6: What is the effect of the FGF gene?

Answer: stimulates mitosis of underlying mesoderm, lengthening of limbs

Flashcard 7: What is the embryological origin of the adrenal medulla?

Answer: Neural crest cells

Extra: The adrenal medulla is essentially a modified sympathetic ganglion. While the medulla is derived from the neural crest (ectoderm), the adrenal cortex is derived from the mesoderm.

Flashcard 8: Identify the structure labeled '10' in the provided image of the spinal cord (Endocrine/Autonomic context).

Answer: Intermediate horn (Sympathetics) :: number 10 in the diagram

Flashcard 9: Effect of a lesion to the Reticular Activating System (RAS)?

Answer: Reduced wakefulness and arousability (e.g., coma)

Flashcard 10: What cells and tissue make CSF?

Answer: Ependymal cells of choroid plexus