Endocrine System: Part I

1. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the endocrine system?

a. Products secreted into blood
b. Glands with ducts
c. Secretes hormones
d. Non localized response
e. All of the following are characteristics of the endocrine system

Answer: b
The endocrine system is a system of cellular communication. The means of communication is
via hormones. The hormones are secreted by ductless glands directly into the bloodstream.
Generally, the response to hormones is non-localized. If a gland secretes its product through a
duct, it is an exocrine gland.

2. What type of hormone is testosterone?

a. Protein
b. Amino acid chain
c. Steroid
d. Catecholamine
e. None of the above

Answer: c
Hormones can have a variety of structures. Hormones which are proteins include insulin and
prolactin. Peptide chains are short chains of amino acids. Examples of hormones which are
peptide chains are antidiuretic hormone and oxytocin. Steroid hormones are cholesterol
derivatives. Steroid hormones include testosterone and estradiol. Norepinephrine and
epinephrine are catecholamines.

3. What organ is nicknamed the "master gland"

a. Adrenal medulla
b. Adrenal cortex
c. Brain
d. Pituitary
e. Heart

Answer: d
The pituitary is nicknamed the master gland.

4. What cell type secretes ACTH?

a. Lactotropic cells
b. Thyrotropic cells
c. Somatotropic cells
d. Corticotropic cells
e. Gonadotropic cells
Answer: d
There are several cell types in the pars distalis (anterior pituitary). Lactotropic cells secrete
prolactin. Thyrotropic cells secrete thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Somatotropic cells
secrete growth hormone. Corticotropic cells secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and
melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH). Gonadotropic cells secrete follicle stimulating
hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

5. Where is corpora arenacea found?

a. Pituitary
b. Pineal gland
c. Adrenal gland
d. Pancreas
e. Thyroid

Answer: b
Corpora arenacea is nicknamed "brain sand". Corpora arenacea is calcification seen in the
pineal gland.

6. Which gland secretes melatonin?

a. Pancreas
b. Thyroid
c. Pineal gland
d. Adrenal gland (cortex)
e. Adrenal gland (medulla)

Answer: c
The endocrine portion of the pancreas secretes insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin. The
thyroid gland secretes the thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and calcitonin. The pineal gland
secretes melatonin. The cortex of the adrenal gland secretes a variety of corticosteroids. It
secretes mineralocorticoids (such as aldosterone), glucocorticoids (such as cortisol) and
sex steroids. Epinephrine and norepinephrine are secreted from the adrenal medulla.

7. Which cell type are involved in the secretion thyroglobulin?

a. Principal cell
b. Oxyphil cell
c. Parafollicular cells
d. Follicular cells
e. Chromaffin cells

Answer: d
There are two cell types in the parathyroid gland: principal cells and oxyphil cells. Principal
cells are also called chief cells. Principal cells are the more prevalent. Oxyphil cells are also
found in the parathyroid gland; however they are not as prevalent as principal cells.
There are two cell types in the thyroid: follicular cells and parafollicular cells. Follicular
cells release and store thyroid hormone. Parafollicular cells of the thyroid gland are also
called C cells. They secrete calcitonin. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells.

8. Where is insulin secreted from?

a. Alpha cells
b. Beta cells
c. Gamma cells
d. Delta cells
e. Acini

Answer: b
The pancreas is both an endocrine and exocrine organ. The endocrine portion of the pancreas
is housed in the islets of Langerhans. Within the islets, there are several cell types. The alpha
cells secrete glucagon. The beta cells secrete insulin. The delta cells secrete somatostatin.
The gamma cells secrete pancreatic polypeptide. The acini is the exocrine portion of the
pancreas.

9. Which of the following is part of the adrenal gland?

a. Chromaffin cells
b. Zona reticularis
c. Zona glomerulosa
d. Zona fasciculata
e. All of the above

Answer: e
The adrenal gland is composed of the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The layers of
the adrenal cortex, from outermost to innermost are: zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and
zona reticularis. The respective principle products are: mineralocorticods, glucocorticoids,
and sex steroids. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells. They secrete the
catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine). Histology hint from Sarah Bellham: A
mnemonic to remember the layers of the adrenal cortex and their respective products is "Go
Find Rex; Make Good Sex" (glomerulosa, fasciculata, reticularis) (mineralocorticoid,
glucocorticoid, sex steroids).

10. Which part the adrenal gland secretes glucocorticoids?

a. Chromaffin cells
b. Zona reticularis
c. Zona glomerulosa
d. Zona fasciculata
e. None of the above

Answer: d
The adrenal gland is composed of the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The layers of
the adrenal cortex, from outermost to innermost are: zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and
zona reticularis. The respective principle products are: mineralocorticods, glucocorticoids,
and sex steroids. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells. They secrete the
catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine).

Part II
1. What type of hormone is insulin?
a. Protein
b. Peptide
c. Steroid
d. Catecholamine
e. None of the above

Answer: a
Hormones can have a variety of structures. Hormones which are proteins include insulin and
prolactin. Peptide chains are short chains of amino acids. Examples of hormones which are
peptide chains are antidiuretic hormone and oxytocin. Steroid hormones are cholesterol
derivatives. Steroid hormones include testosterone and estradiol. Norepinephrine and
epinephrine are catecholamines.

2. What connects the pituitary to the hypothalamus?

a. Pars intermedia
b. Pars tuberalis
c. Infundibulum
d. Adenohypophysis
e. Neurohypophysis

Answer: c
The pituitary is nicknamed the master gland. The infundibulum connects the pituitary to the
hypothalamus. The pituitary can be subdivided into the adenohypophysis and
neurohypophysis. The adenohypophysis can be further sub-divided into the pars distalis,
pars intermedia, and pars tuberalis. The adenohypophysis (more specifically, the pars distalis
of the adenohypophysis) secretes tropic hormones. Tropic hormones affect cellular activity in
their target organ. The neurohypophysis secretes two hormones: oxytocin and antidiuretic
hormone.

3. Which of the following is not part of the adenohypophysis?

a. Pars intermedia
b. Pars tuberalis
c. Pars distalis
d. Pars nervosa
e. All of the above are part of the adenohypophysis
Answer: d
The pituitary can be subdivided into the adenohypophysis and neurohypophysis. The
adenohypophysis can be further sub-divided into the pars distalis, pars intermedia, and pars
tuberalis. The pars distalis is the anterior lobe of the pituitary. The neurohypophysis can be
further sub-divided into the pars nervosa, infundibular stalk, and median eminence. The
pars nervosa is the posterior lobe.

4. What cell type secretes prolactin?

a. Lactotropic cells
b. Thyrotropic cells
c. Somatotropic cells
d. Corticotropic cells
e. Gonadotropic cells

Answer: a
There are several cell types in the pars distalis (anterior pituitary). Lactotropic cells secrete
prolactin. Thyrotropic cells secrete thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Somatotropic cells
secrete growth hormone. Corticotropic cells secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and
melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH). Gonadotropic cells secrete follicle stimulating
hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

5. Which of the following cells can be classified as an acidophil?

a. Gonadotropic cells
b. Corticotropic cells
c. Thyrotropic cells
d. Lactotropic cells
e. All of the above

Answer: d
The cells of the pars distalis (anterior pituitary) can be classified as acidophils or basophils
depending on their affinity for acid or basic dyes, respectively. The acidophils are the
somatotropic cells and the lactotropic cells. Thus, growth hormone and prolactin are secreted
by acidophilic cells. The basophils are the gonadotropic cells, corticotropic cells and thyrotropic
cells. Thus, the basophils secrete FSH, LH, ACTH, and TSH. Histology hint from Sarah
Bellham: There are two mnemonics to use when thinking of acidophils and basophils of the
anterior pituitary.
"GPA" (growth hormone and prolactin are secreted by the acidophils).
"B-FLAT" (basophils secrete FSH, LH, ACTH, and TSH).

6. Which gland secretes calcitonin?

a. Pancreas
b. Thyroid
c. Pineal gland
d. Adrenal gland (cortex)
e. Adrenal gland (medulla)

Answer: b
The endocrine portion of the pancreas secretes insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin. The
thyroid gland secretes the thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and calcitonin. The pineal gland
secretes melatonin. The cortex of the adrenal gland secretes a variety of corticosteroids. It
secretes mineralocorticoids (such as aldosterone), glucocorticoids (such as cortisol) and
sex steroids. Epinephrine and norepinephrine are secreted from the adrenal medulla.

7. Which cell type are also called C cells?

a. Principal cell
b. Oxyphil cell
c. Parafollicular cells
d. Follicular cells
e. Chromaffin cells

Answer: c
There are two cell types in the parathyroid gland: principal cells and oxyphil cells. Principal
cells are also called chief cells. Principal cells are the more prevalent. Oxyphil cells are also
found in the parathyroid gland; however they are not as prevalent as principal cells.
There are two cell types in the thyroid: follicular cells and parafollicular cells. Follicular
cells release and store thyroid hormone. Parafollicular cells of the thyroid gland are also
called C cells. They secrete calcitonin. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells.

8. Where is glucagon secreted from?

a. Alpha cells
b. Beta cells
c. Gamma cells
d. Delta cells
e. Acini

Answer: a
The pancreas is both an endocrine and exocrine organ. The endocrine portion of the pancreas
is housed in the islets of Langerhans. Within the islets, there are several cell types. The alpha
cells secrete glucagon. The beta cells secrete insulin. The delta cells secrete somatostatin.
The gamma cells secrete pancreatic polypeptide. The acini is the exocrine portion of the
pancreas.

9. Which of the following is a component of the adrenal medulla?

a. Chromaffin cells
b. Zona reticularis
c. Zona glomerulosa
d. Zona fasciculata
e. All of the above
Answer: a
The adrenal gland is composed of the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The layers of
the adrenal cortex, from outermost to innermost are: zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and
zona reticularis. The respective principle products are: mineralocorticods, glucocorticoids,
and sex steroids. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells. They secrete the
catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine).

10. What are the cells of the pineal gland called?

a. Follicular cells
b. Parafollicular cells
c. Pinealocytes
d. P cells
e. PP cells

Answer: c
The cells of the pineal gland called pinealocytes. There are also glial cells in the pineal
gland. PP cells are cells in the pancreas which secrete pancreatic polypeptide.

Part III
1. What type of hormone is prolactin?
a. Protein
b. Peptide
c. Steroid
d. Catecholamine
e. None of the above

Answer: a
Hormones can have a variety of structures. Hormones which are proteins include insulin and
prolactin. Peptide chains are short chains of amino acids. Examples of hormones which are
peptide chains are antidiuretic hormone and oxytocin. Steroid hormones are cholesterol
derivatives. Steroid hormones include testosterone and estradiol. Norepinephrine and
epinephrine are catecholamines.

2. Where are tropic hormones secreted from?

a. Pars intermedia
b. Pars tuberalis
c. Infundibulum
d. Adenohypophysis
e. Neurohypophysis

Answer: d
The pituitary is nicknamed the master gland. The infundibulum connects the pituitary to the
hypothalamus. The pituitary can be subdivided into the adenohypophysis and
neurohypophysis. The adenohypophysis can be further sub-divided into the pars distalis,
pars intermedia, and pars tuberalis. The adenohypophysis (more specifically, the pars distalis
of the adenohypophysis) secretes tropic hormones. Tropic hormones affect cellular activity in
their target organ. The neurohypophysis secretes two hormones: oxytocin and antidiuretic
hormone.

3. Which of the following is not part of the neurohypophysis?

a. Median eminence
b. Pars distalis
c. Pars nervosa
d. Infundibular stalk
e. All of the above are part of the neurohypophysis

Answer: b
The pituitary can be subdivided into the adenohypophysis and neurohypophysis. The
adenohypophysis can be further sub-divided into the pars distalis, pars intermedia, and pars
tuberalis. The pars distalis is the anterior lobe of the pituitary. The neurohypophysis can be
further sub-divided into the pars nervosa, infundibular stalk, and median eminence. The
pars nervosa is the posterior lobe.

4. What cell type secretes MSH?

a. Lactotropic cells
b. Thyrotropic cells
c. Somatotropic cells
d. Corticotropic cells
e. Gonadotropic cells

Answer: d
There are several cell types in the pars distalis (anterior pituitary). Lactotropic cells secrete
prolactin. Thyrotropic cells secrete thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Somatotropic cells
secrete growth hormone. Corticotropic cells secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and
melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH). Gonadotropic cells secrete follicle stimulating
hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

5. Which of the following cells can be classified as an acidophil?

a. Corticotropic cells
b. Thyrotropic cells
c. Gonadotropic cells
d. None of the above
e. All of the above

Answer: d
The cells of the pars distalis (anterior pituitary) can be classified as acidophils or basophils
depending on their affinity for acid or basic dyes, respectively. The acidophils are the
somatotropic cells and the lactotropic cells. Thus, growth hormone and prolactin are secreted
by acidophilic cells. The basophils are the gonadotropic cells, corticotropic cells and thyrotropic
cells. Thus, the basophils secrete FSH, LH, ACTH, and TSH. Histology hint from Sarah
Bellham: There are two mnemonics to use when thinking of acidophils and basophils of the
anterior pituitary.
"GPA" (growth hormone and prolactin are secreted by the acidophils).
"B-FLAT" (basophils secrete FSH, LH, ACTH, and TSH).

6. Which gland secretes epinephrine?

a. Pancreas
b. Thyroid
c. Pineal gland
d. Adrenal gland (cortex)
e. Adrenal gland (medulla)

Answer: e
The endocrine portion of the pancreas secretes insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin. The
thyroid gland secretes the thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and calcitonin. The pineal gland
secretes melatonin. The cortex of the adrenal gland secretes a variety of corticosteroids. It
secretes mineralocorticoids (such as aldosterone), glucocorticoids (such as cortisol) and
sex steroids. Epinephrine and norepinephrine are secreted from the adrenal medulla.

7. Which gland secretes cortisol?

a. Pancreas
b. Thyroid
c. Pineal gland
d. Adrenal gland (cortex)
e. Adrenal gland (medulla)

Answer: d
The endocrine portion of the pancreas secretes insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin. The
thyroid gland secretes the thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and calcitonin. The pineal gland
secretes melatonin. The cortex of the adrenal gland secretes a variety of corticosteroids. It
secretes mineralocorticoids (such as aldosterone), glucocorticoids (such as cortisol) and
sex steroids. Epinephrine and norepinephrine are secreted from the adrenal medulla.

8. Which cell type is found in the adrenal medulla?

a. Principal cell
b. Oxyphil cell
c. Parafollicular cells
d. Follicular cells
e. Chromaffin cells

Answer: e
There are two cell types in the parathyroid gland: principal cells and oxyphil cells. Principal
cells are also called chief cells. Principal cells are the more prevalent. Oxyphil cells are also
found in the parathyroid gland; however they are not as prevalent as principal cells.
There are two cell types in the thyroid: follicular cells and parafollicular cells. Follicular
cells release and store thyroid hormone. Parafollicular cells of the thyroid gland are also
called C cells. They secrete calcitonin. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells.

9. Where is pancreatic polypeptide secreted from?

a. Alpha cells
b. Beta cells
c. Gamma cells
d. Delta cells
e. Acini

Answer: c
The pancreas is both an endocrine and exocrine organ. The endocrine portion of the pancreas
is housed in the islets of Langerhans. Within the islets, there are several cell types. The alpha
cells secrete glucagon. The beta cells secrete insulin. The delta cells secrete somatostatin.
The gamma cells secrete pancreatic polypeptide. The acini is the exocrine portion of the
pancreas.

10. Which of the following is the middle layer of the adrenal cortex?
a. Chromaffin cells
b. Zona reticularis
c. Zona glomerulosa
d. Zona fasciculata
e. None of the above

Answer: d
The adrenal gland is composed of the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The layers of
the adrenal cortex, from outermost to innermost are: zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and
zona reticularis. The respective principle products are: mineralocorticods, glucocorticoids,
and sex steroids. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells. They secrete the
catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine).

Part IV
1. What type of hormone is antidiuretic hormone?
a. Protein
b. Peptide
c. Steroid
d. Catecholamine
e. None of the above

Answer: b
Hormones can have a variety of structures. Hormones which are proteins include insulin and
prolactin. Peptide chains are short chains of amino acids. Examples of hormones which are
peptide chains are antidiuretic hormone and oxytocin. Steroid hormones are cholesterol
derivatives. Steroid hormones include testosterone and estradiol. Norepinephrine and
epinephrine are catecholamines.

2. Where is oxytocin secreted from?

a. Pars intermedia
b. Pars tuberalis
c. Infundibulum
d. Adenohypophysis
e. Neurohypophysis

Answer: e
The pituitary is nicknamed the master gland. The infundibulum connects the pituitary to the
hypothalamus. The pituitary can be subdivided into the adenohypophysis and
neurohypophysis. The adenohypophysis can be further sub-divided into the pars distalis,
pars intermedia, and pars tuberalis. The adenohypophysis (more specifically, the pars distalis
of the adenohypophysis) secretes tropic hormones. Tropic hormones affect cellular activity in
their target organ. The neurohypophysis secretes two hormones: oxytocin and antidiuretic
hormone.

3. What cell type secretes LH?

a. Lactotropic cells
b. Thyrotropic cells
c. Somatotropic cells
d. Corticotropic cells
e. Gonadotropic cells

Answer: e
There are several cell types in the pars distalis (anterior pituitary). Lactotropic cells secrete
prolactin. Thyrotropic cells secrete thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Somatotropic cells
secrete growth hormone. Corticotropic cells secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and
melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH). Gonadotropic cells secrete follicle stimulating
hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

4. Which of the following cells can be classified as a basophil?

a. Thyrotropic cells
b. Lactotropic cells
c. Somatotropic cells
d. None of the above
e. All of the above

Answer: a
The cells of the pars distalis (anterior pituitary) can be classified as acidophils or basophils
depending on their affinity for acid or basic dyes, respectively. The acidophils are the
somatotropic cells and the lactotropic cells. Thus, growth hormone and prolactin are secreted
by acidophilic cells. The basophils are the gonadotropic cells, corticotropic cells and thyrotropic
cells. Thus, the basophils secrete FSH, LH, ACTH, and TSH. Histology hint from Sarah
Bellham: There are two mnemonics to use when thinking of acidophils and basophils of the
anterior pituitary.
"GPA" (growth hormone and prolactin are secreted by the acidophils).
"B-FLAT" (basophils secrete FSH, LH, ACTH, and TSH).

5. Which gland secretes T3?

a. Pancreas
b. Thyroid
c. Pineal gland
d. Adrenal gland (cortex)
e. Adrenal gland (medulla)

Answer: b
The endocrine portion of the pancreas secretes insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin. The
thyroid gland secretes the thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and calcitonin. The pineal gland
secretes melatonin. The cortex of the adrenal gland secretes a variety of corticosteroids. It
secretes mineralocorticoids (such as aldosterone), glucocorticoids (such as cortisol) and
sex steroids. Epinephrine and norepinephrine are secreted from the adrenal medulla.

6. Which gland secretes sex steroids?

a. Pancreas
b. Thyroid
c. Pineal gland
d. Adrenal gland (cortex)
e. Adrenal gland (medulla)

Answer: d
The endocrine portion of the pancreas secretes insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin. The
thyroid gland secretes the thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and calcitonin. The pineal gland
secretes melatonin. The cortex of the adrenal gland secretes a variety of corticosteroids. It
secretes mineralocorticoids (such as aldosterone), glucocorticoids (such as cortisol) and
sex steroids. Epinephrine and norepinephrine are secreted from the adrenal medulla.
7. Which of the following is the exocrine portion of the pancreas?
a. Islets of Langerhans
b. Alpha cells
c. Beta cells
d. Delta cells
e. Acini

Answer: e The pancreas is both an endocrine and exocrine organ. The endocrine portion of the
pancreas is housed in the islets of Langerhans. Within the islets, there are several cell types.
The alpha cells secrete glucagon. The beta cells secrete insulin. The delta cells secrete
somatostatin. The gamma cells secrete pancreatic polypeptide. The acini is the exocrine
portion of the pancreas.

8. Where is somatostatin secreted from?

a. Alpha cells
b. Beta cells
c. Gamma cells
d. Delta cells
e. Acini

Answer: d
The pancreas is both an endocrine and exocrine organ. The endocrine portion of the pancreas
is housed in the islets of Langerhans. Within the islets, there are several cell types. The alpha
cells secrete glucagon. The beta cells secrete insulin. The delta cells secrete somatostatin.
The gamma cells secrete pancreatic polypeptide. The acini is the exocrine portion of the
pancreas.

9. Which of the following is seen the innermost portion the adrenal gland?
a. Chromaffin cells
b. Zona reticularis
c. Zona glomerulosa
d. Zona fasciculata
e. None of the above

Answer: a
The adrenal gland is composed of the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The layers of
the adrenal cortex, from outermost to innermost are: zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and
zona reticularis. The respective principle products are: mineralocorticods, glucocorticoids,
and sex steroids. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells. They secrete the
catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine).
10. What cell of the parathyroid gland is also called a "chief cell"?
a. Principal cell
b. Oxyphil cell
c. Parafollicular cells
d. Follicular cells
e. Chromaffin cells

Answer: a
There are two cell types in the parathyroid gland: principal cells and oxyphil cells. Principal
cells are also called chief cells. Principal cells are the more prevalent. Oxyphil cells are also
found in the parathyroid gland; however they are not as prevalent as principal cells.
There are two cell types in the thyroid: follicular cells and parafollicular cells. Follicular
cells release and store thyroid hormone. Parafollicular cells of the thyroid gland are also
called C cells. They secrete calcitonin. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells.

Part V
1. What type of hormone is oxytocin?
a. Protein
b. Peptide
c. Steroid
d. Catecholamine
e. None of the above

Answer: b
Hormones can have a variety of structures. Hormones which are proteins include insulin and
prolactin. Peptide chains are short chains of amino acids. Examples of hormones which are
peptide chains are antidiuretic hormone and oxytocin. Steroid hormones are cholesterol
derivatives. Steroid hormones include testosterone and estradiol. Norepinephrine and
epinephrine are catecholamines.

2. Where is antidiuretic hormone (ADH) secreted from?

a. Pars intermedia
b. Pars tuberalis
c. Infundibulum
d. Adenohypophysis
e. Neurohypophysis

Answer: e
The pituitary is nicknamed the master gland. The infundibulum connects the pituitary to the
hypothalamus. The pituitary can be subdivided into the adenohypophysis and
neurohypophysis. The adenohypophysis can be further sub-divided into the pars distalis,
pars intermedia, and pars tuberalis. The adenohypophysis (more specifically, the pars distalis
of the adenohypophysis) secretes tropic hormones. Tropic hormones affect cellular activity in
their target organ. The neurohypophysis secretes two hormones: oxytocin and antidiuretic
hormone.

3. What cell type secretes FSH?

a. Lactotropic cells
b. Thyrotropic cells
c. Somatotropic cells
d. Corticotropic cells
e. Gonadotropic cells

Answer: e
There are several cell types in the pars distalis (anterior pituitary). Lactotropic cells secrete
prolactin. Thyrotropic cells secrete thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Somatotropic cells
secrete growth hormone. Corticotropic cells secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and
melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH). Gonadotropic cells secrete follicle stimulating
hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

4. Which of the following cells can be classified as a basophil?

a. Lactotropic cells
b. Corticotropic cells
c. Somatotropic cells
d. None of the above
e. All of the above

Answer: b
The cells of the pars distalis (anterior pituitary) can be classified as acidophils or basophils
depending on their affinity for acid or basic dyes, respectively. The acidophils are the
somatotropic cells and the lactotropic cells. Thus, growth hormone and prolactin are secreted
by acidophilic cells. The basophils are the gonadotropic cells, corticotropic cells and thyrotropic
cells. Thus, the basophils secrete FSH, LH, ACTH, and TSH. Histology hint from Sarah
Bellham: There are two mnemonics to use when thinking of acidophils and basophils of the
anterior pituitary.
"GPA" (growth hormone and prolactin are secreted by the acidophils).
"B-FLAT" (basophils secrete FSH, LH, ACTH, and TSH).

5.Which gland secretes norepinephrine?

a. Pancreas
b. Thyroid
c. Pineal gland
d. Adrenal gland (cortex)
e. Adrenal gland (medulla)

Answer: e
The endocrine portion of the pancreas secretes insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin. The
thyroid gland secretes the thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and calcitonin. The pineal gland
secretes melatonin. The cortex of the adrenal gland secretes a variety of corticosteroids. It
secretes mineralocorticoids (such as aldosterone), glucocorticoids (such as cortisol) and
sex steroids. Epinephrine and norepinephrine are secreted from the adrenal medulla.

6. What is corpora arenacea?

a. Brain sand
b. Basal body
c. Nissl body
d. White body
e. Degenerating corpus luteum

Answer: a
Corpora arenacea is nicknamed "brain sand". Corpora arenacea is calcification seen in the
pineal gland.

7. What gland secretes aldosterone?

a. Pancreas
b. Thyroid
c. Pineal gland
d. Adrenal gland (cortex)
e. Adrenal gland (medulla)

Answer: d
The endocrine portion of the pancreas secretes insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin. The
thyroid gland secretes the thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and calcitonin. The pineal gland
secretes melatonin. The cortex of the adrenal gland secretes a variety of corticosteroids. It
secretes mineralocorticoids (such as aldosterone), glucocorticoids (such as cortisol) and
sex steroids. Epinephrine and norepinephrine are secreted from the adrenal medulla.

8. What is the most common cell in the parathyroid gland?

a. Principal cell
b. Oxyphil cell
c. Parafollicular cells
d. Follicular cells
e. Chromaffin cells

Answer: a
There are two cell types in the parathyroid gland: principal cells and oxyphil cells. Principal
cells are also called chief cells. Principal cells are the more prevalent. Oxyphil cells are also
found in the parathyroid gland; however they are not as prevalent as principal cells.
There are two cell types in the thyroid: follicular cells and parafollicular cells. Follicular
cells release and store thyroid hormone. Parafollicular cells of the thyroid gland are also
called C cells. They secrete calcitonin. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells.

9. Where are catecholamines secreted from?

a. Chromaffin cells
b. Zona reticularis
c. Zona glomerulosa
d. Zona fasciculata
e. None of the above

Answer: a
The adrenal gland is composed of the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The layers of
the adrenal cortex, from outermost to innermost are: zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and
zona reticularis. The respective principle products are: mineralocorticods, glucocorticoids,
and sex steroids. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells. They secrete the
catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine).

10. Which of the following is the outer layer of the adrenal cortex?
a. Chromaffin cells
b. Zona reticularis
c. Zona glomerulosa
d. Zona fasciculata
e. None of the above

Answer: c
The adrenal gland is composed of the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The layers of
the adrenal cortex, from outermost to innermost are: zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and
zona reticularis. The respective principle products are: mineralocorticods, glucocorticoids,
and sex steroids. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells. They secrete the
catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine).

Part VI
1. What type of hormone is estradiol?
a. Protein
b. Amino acid chain
c. Steroid
d. Catecholamine
e. None of the above

Answer: c
Hormones can have a variety of structures. Hormones which are proteins include insulin and
prolactin. Peptide chains are short chains of amino acids. Examples of hormones which are
peptide chains are antidiuretic hormone and oxytocin. Steroid hormones are cholesterol
derivatives. Steroid hormones include testosterone and estradiol. Norepinephrine and
epinephrine are catecholamines.

2. What is another term for the anterior lobe of the pituitary?

a. Pars intermedia
b. Pars tuberalis
c. Pars distalis
d. Pars nervosa
e. Infundibular stalk

Answer: c
The pituitary can be subdivided into the adenohypophysis and neurohypophysis. The
adenohypophysis can be further sub-divided into the pars distalis, pars intermedia, and pars
tuberalis. The pars distalis is the anterior lobe of the pituitary. The neurohypophysis can be
further sub-divided into the pars nervosa, infundibular stalk, and median eminence. The
pars nervosa is the posterior lobe.

3. What cell type secretes growth hormone?

a. Lactotropic cells
b. Thyrotropic cells
c. Somatotropic cells
d. Corticotropic cells
e. Gonadotropic cells

Answer: c
There are several cell types in the pars distalis (anterior pituitary). Lactotropic cells secrete
prolactin. Thyrotropic cells secrete thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Somatotropic cells
secrete growth hormone. Corticotropic cells secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and
melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH). Gonadotropic cells secrete follicle stimulating
hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

4. Which of the following cells can be classified as a basophil?

a. Somatotropic cells
b. Lactotropic cells
c. Gonadotropic cells
d. None of the above
e. All of the above

Answer: c
The cells of the pars distalis (anterior pituitary) can be classified as acidophils or basophils
depending on their affinity for acid or basic dyes, respectively. The acidophils are the
somatotropic cells and the lactotropic cells. Thus, growth hormone and prolactin are secreted
by acidophilic cells. The basophils are the gonadotropic cells, corticotropic cells and thyrotropic
cells. Thus, the basophils secrete FSH, LH, ACTH, and TSH. Histology hint from Sarah
Bellham: There are two mnemonics to use when thinking of acidophils and basophils of the
anterior pituitary.
"GPA" (growth hormone and prolactin are secreted by the acidophils).
"B-FLAT" (basophils secrete FSH, LH, ACTH, and TSH).

5. Where is the endocrine portion of the pancreas housed?

a. Islets of Langerhans
b. Alpha cells
c. Beta cells
d. Delta cells
e. Acini

Answer: a
The pancreas is both an endocrine and exocrine organ. The endocrine portion of the pancreas
is housed in the islets of Langerhans. Within the islets, there are several cell types. The alpha
cells secrete glucagon. The beta cells secrete insulin. The delta cells secrete somatostatin.
The gamma cells secrete pancreatic polypeptide. The acini is the exocrine portion of the
pancreas.

6. Which gland secretes glucagon?

a. Pancreas
b. Thyroid
c. Pineal gland
d. Adrenal gland (cortex)
e. Adrenal gland (medulla)

Answer: a
The endocrine portion of the pancreas secretes insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin. The
thyroid gland secretes the thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and calcitonin. The pineal gland
secretes melatonin. The cortex of the adrenal gland secretes a variety of corticosteroids. It
secretes mineralocorticoids (such as aldosterone), glucocorticoids (such as cortisol) and
sex steroids. Epinephrine and norepinephrine are secreted from the adrenal medulla.

7. Which cell type secretes calcitonin?

a. Principal cell
b. Oxyphil cell
c. Parafollicular cells
d. Follicular cells
e. Chromaffin cells

Answer: c
There are two cell types in the parathyroid gland: principal cells and oxyphil cells. Principal
cells are also called chief cells. Principal cells are the more prevalent. Oxyphil cells are also
found in the parathyroid gland; however they are not as prevalent as principal cells.
There are two cell types in the thyroid: follicular cells and parafollicular cells. Follicular
cells release and store thyroid hormone. Parafollicular cells of the thyroid gland are also
called C cells. They secrete calcitonin. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells.

8. Which cell type is found in the parathyroid, but is not the most abundant cell type?
a. Principal cell
b. Oxyphil cell
c. Parafollicular cells
d. Follicular cells
e. Chromaffin cells

Answer: b
There are two cell types in the parathyroid gland: principal cells and oxyphil cells. Principal
cells are also called chief cells. Principal cells are the more prevalent. Oxyphil cells are also
found in the parathyroid gland; however they are not as prevalent as principal cells.
There are two cell types in the thyroid: follicular cells and parafollicular cells. Follicular
cells release and store thyroid hormone. Parafollicular cells of the thyroid gland are also
called C cells. They secrete calcitonin. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells.

9. Which part the adrenal gland secretes mineralocorticoids?

a. Chromaffin cells
b. Zona reticularis
c. Zona glomerulosa
d. Zona fasciculata
e. None of the above

Answer: c
The adrenal gland is composed of the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The layers of
the adrenal cortex, from outermost to innermost are: zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and
zona reticularis. The respective principle products are: mineralocorticods, glucocorticoids,
and sex steroids. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells. They secrete the
catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine).

10. Which of the following is the inner layer of the adrenal cortex?
a. Chromaffin cells
b. Zona reticularis
c. Zona glomerulosa
d. Zona fasciculata
e. None of the above

Answer: b
The adrenal gland is composed of the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The layers of
the adrenal cortex, from outermost to innermost are: zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and
zona reticularis. The respective principle products are: mineralocorticods, glucocorticoids,
and sex steroids. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells. They secrete the
catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine).

Part VII
1. What type of hormone is epinephrine?
a. Protein
b. Amino acid chain
c. Steroid
d. Catecholamine
e. None of the above

Answer: d
Hormones can have a variety of structures. Hormones which are proteins include insulin and
prolactin. Peptide chains are short chains of amino acids. Examples of hormones which are
peptide chains are antidiuretic hormone and oxytocin. Steroid hormones are cholesterol
derivatives. Steroid hormones include testosterone and estradiol. Norepinephrine and
epinephrine are catecholamines.

2. What is another term for the posterior lobe of the pituitary?

a. Pars intermedia
b. Pars tuberalis
c. Pars distalis
d. Pars nervosa
e. Infundibular stalk

Answer: d
The pituitary can be subdivided into the adenohypophysis and neurohypophysis. The
adenohypophysis can be further sub-divided into the pars distalis, pars intermedia, and pars
tuberalis. The pars distalis is the anterior lobe of the pituitary. The neurohypophysis can be
further sub-divided into the pars nervosa, infundibular stalk, and median eminence. The
pars nervosa is the posterior lobe.

3. What cell type secretes TSH?

a. Lactotropic cells
b. Thyrotropic cells
c. Somatotropic cells
d. Corticotropic cells
e. Gonadotropic cells

Answer: b
There are several cell types in the pars distalis (anterior pituitary). Lactotropic cells secrete
prolactin. Thyrotropic cells secrete thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Somatotropic cells
secrete growth hormone. Corticotropic cells secrete adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and
melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH). Gonadotropic cells secrete follicle stimulating
hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

4. Which of the following cells can be classified as a basophil?

a. Corticotropic cells
b. Thyrotropic cells
c. Gonadotropic cells
d. None of the above
e. All of the above

Answer: e
The cells of the pars distalis (anterior pituitary) can be classified as acidophils or basophils
depending on their affinity for acid or basic dyes, respectively. The acidophils are the
somatotropic cells and the lactotropic cells. Thus, growth hormone and prolactin are secreted
by acidophilic cells. The basophils are the gonadotropic cells, corticotropic cells and thyrotropic
cells. Thus, the basophils secrete FSH, LH, ACTH, and TSH. Histology hint from Sarah
Bellham: There are two mnemonics to use when thinking of acidophils and basophils of the
anterior pituitary.
"GPA" (growth hormone and prolactin are secreted by the acidophils).
"B-FLAT" (basophils secrete FSH, LH, ACTH, and TSH).

5. Which gland secretes insulin?

a. Pancreas
b. Thyroid
c. Pineal gland
d. Adrenal gland (cortex)
e. Adrenal gland (medulla)

Answer: a
The endocrine portion of the pancreas secretes insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin. The
thyroid gland secretes the thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and calcitonin. The pineal gland
secretes melatonin. The cortex of the adrenal gland secretes a variety of corticosteroids. It
secretes mineralocorticoids (such as aldosterone), glucocorticoids (such as cortisol) and
sex steroids. Epinephrine and norepinephrine are secreted from the adrenal medulla.

6. Which part the adrenal gland secretes sex steroids?

a. Chromaffin cells
b. Zona reticularis
c. Zona glomerulosa
d. Zona fasciculata
e. None of the above
Answer: b
The adrenal gland is composed of the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The layers of
the adrenal cortex, from outermost to innermost are: zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and
zona reticularis. The respective principle products are: mineralocorticods, glucocorticoids,
and sex steroids. The cells of the adrenal medulla are chromaffin cells. They secrete the
catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine).

7. What is the classification of the pancreas?

a. Mixed
b. Endocrine
c. Exocrine
d. Both endocrine and exocrine
e. None of the above

Answer: d
The pancreas is both an endocrine and exocrine organ.

8. Where in the pancreas are islets of Langerhans most numerous?

a. Head
b. Body
c. Tail
d. Evenly distributed
e. Depends on the individual

Answer: c
Islets of Langerhans are most numerous in the tail of the pancreas.

Source: histology-world.com