Endocrine System and Chemical Co-Ordination (VSAQs)
Zoology-2 | Unit-4A: Endocrine System and Chemical Co-Ordination – VSAQs:
Welcome to VSAQs in Unit-4A: Endocrine System and Chemical Co-Ordination. This page includes the most important FAQs from previous exams. Each answer is presented in the exam format to help you prepare effectively and aim for top marks in your final exams.
VSAQ-1: What is Acromegaly? Name the Hormone Responsible for This Disorder
Acromegaly is a condition that occurs when there’s too much of the growth hormone in an adult’s body. Imagine a person whose jaw, hands, and feet start to grow larger than usual, and their nose, lips, and eyelids become thicker. This extra growth can lead to noticeable changes in appearance and can cause health issues. The hormone responsible for this condition is called somatotropin. Although it’s rare, doctors can treat acromegaly effectively with medical intervention.
VSAQ-2: Which Hormone is Called Anti-Diuretic Hormone? Write the Name of the Gland That Secretes It
The anti-diuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, is essential for managing your body’s water levels. This hormone is secreted by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland, located at the base of your brain. ADH helps your kidneys retain water, balancing how much urine you produce and keeping your body’s water levels steady.
VSAQ-3: Distinguish Between Diabetes Insipidus and Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes Insipidus and Diabetes Mellitus are both conditions involving excess urine production, but they have different causes. Diabetes Insipidus happens when the body doesn’t produce enough vasopressin (the hormone that helps your kidneys reabsorb water). This leads to excessive thirst and frequent urination. On the other hand, Diabetes Mellitus is due to problems with insulin, a hormone that helps manage blood sugar. In this condition, either the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it properly, leading to high blood sugar levels and increased urine production.
VSAQ-4: Name the Gland That Increases in Size During Childhood and Decreases in Size During Adulthood. What Important Role Does It Play in Case of Infection?
The thymus gland is quite active in childhood, growing larger as it helps develop your immune system. As you grow older, it shrinks in size. The thymus produces a hormone called thymosin, which is crucial for maturing T-lymphocytes (T-cells). These T-cells are key players in your immune system, helping your body fight infections and diseases by supporting the production of antibodies and ensuring you have a strong immune defense.
VSAQ-5: What is ‘Insulin Shock’?
Insulin shock, or hypoglycemia, occurs when your blood sugar levels drop too low due to too much insulin or not eating enough. Symptoms can include confusion, shakiness, sweating, and weakness, and in severe cases, it might even cause unconsciousness. For people with diabetes who use insulin, it’s important to monitor blood sugar levels carefully and treat low blood sugar with quick sources of glucose, like sugary foods or drinks, to avoid insulin shock.
VSAQ-6: Which Hormone is Commonly Known as the Fight and Flight Hormone?
The fight or flight hormones are epinephrine (often called adrenaline) and norepinephrine. These hormones kick in during stressful situations, preparing your body to either face a challenge or escape from danger. They boost your heart rate, energy levels, and alertness, helping you react quickly when you need to, whether it’s by confronting a threat or running away from it.
VSAQ-7: What Are Androgens? Which Cells Secrete Them?
Androgens are a group of hormones, with testosterone being the most well-known. These hormones are responsible for the development of male characteristics, such as facial hair and a deeper voice. They are primarily produced by Leydig cells in the testes. Androgens are important for sperm production and support the male reproductive system, helping maintain male health and characteristics.