1.
Which of these is the best answer? The adrenal gland lies:
Correct Answer
C. On the kidneys
Explanation
The adrenal gland is located on the kidneys. It is an endocrine gland that sits on top of each kidney. It consists of two parts: the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla. The adrenal gland produces hormones that regulate various functions in the body, including stress response, metabolism, and blood pressure.
2.
The adrenal cortex secretes steroid hormones. Which of these corticosteroids are mainly secreted by the adrenal cortex?
Correct Answer(s)
C. C19
D. C21
Explanation
The adrenal cortex mainly secretes corticosteroids of the C19 and C21 types. These include hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and corticosterone. These corticosteroids play important roles in regulating various physiological processes in the body, including metabolism, immune response, and electrolyte balance.
3.
The adrenal medulla is composed of modified sympathetic ganglion cells, which is nervous in nature and secretes hormone upon stimulation. Which of these hormones are secreted?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Adrenaline
C. NorepinepHrine
D. Catecholamines
Explanation
E & NE are catecholamines
4.
For the biosynthesis of steroid hormones in the adrenal cortex, adrenal cortex contain cells with large amounts of:
Correct Answer(s)
B. SER
D. Lipid
Explanation
The adrenal cortex is responsible for the biosynthesis of steroid hormones. These hormones are derived from cholesterol, which is a type of lipid. Therefore, the adrenal cortex contains cells with large amounts of lipid to support the production of steroid hormones. Additionally, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) plays a crucial role in the synthesis of lipids, including cholesterol. Hence, the presence of SER in the adrenal cortex is essential for the biosynthesis of steroid hormones.
5.
The adrenal cortex is divided into 3 zones:1) Zona Glomerulosa (outermost)2) Zona Fasciculata3) Zona reticularisWhat does the Zona glomerulosa secrete?
Correct Answer
A. Mineralocorticoids (Aldosterone, deoxycorticosterone)
Explanation
GFR : Glomerulosa, Fasciculata, Reticularis
6.
The adrenal cortex is divided into 3 zones:1) Zona Glomerulosa (outermost)2) Zona Fasciculata3) Zona reticularisWhat does the Zona Fasciculata & reticularis secrete?
Correct Answer(s)
B. Glucocorticoids
C. Androgens
Explanation
Both secrete glucocorticoids & androgens
7.
What is the arrangement of the cells of the zona glomerulosa?
Correct Answer
B. Whorl of cells
Explanation
The arrangement of the cells in the zona glomerulosa is in the form of a whorl. This means that the cells are arranged in a circular or spiral pattern, with each layer of cells overlapping the previous one. This arrangement allows for efficient communication and interaction between the cells, as well as optimal functioning of the zona glomerulosa in producing and secreting hormones.
8.
What is the arrangement of the cells of the zona fasciculata?
Correct Answer
C. Linear cords
Explanation
The arrangement of the cells in the zona fasciculata is in the form of linear cords. This means that the cells are arranged in long, parallel cords or strands. This arrangement allows for efficient secretion of hormones, such as cortisol, which is produced in the zona fasciculata. The linear cords help to maximize the surface area available for hormone production and release.
9.
What is the arrangement of the zona reticularis?
Correct Answer
A. Netlike
Explanation
The arrangement of the zona reticularis is netlike, which means that the cells are arranged in a network-like pattern. This suggests that the cells are interconnected and form a complex structure.
10.
Which of these is the rate limiting step for the biosynthesis of cortisol?
Correct Answer
A. Conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone by desmolase/SCC
Explanation
In Cytoplasm, Cholesterol + Acetate = Cheolesteryl esters stored in storage vacuoles.
Cholesteryl esters ---b/d---> Fatty acid + Cholesterol
1st step : Cholesterol enter mitochondrion –--enzyme desmolase/ SCC---> convert to Pregnenolone (RATE LIMITING STEP)
2nd step : Pregnenolone enters cytoplasm ---enzyme dehydrogenase, isomerase ---> Progesterone ----> Enter Endoplasmic reticulum
3rd step : Progesterone --- enzyme hydroxylase ---> 17 a- hydroxyprogesterone
4th step : 17a-hydroxyprogesterone --- enzyme hydroxylase ---> 11-Deoxycortisol
5th step : 11-Deoxycortisol enters mitochondrion --- enzyme hydroxylase ---> Cortisol ----> Enter cytoplasm
11.
Which of these is the most potent mineralocorticoids?
Correct Answer
A. Aldosterone
Explanation
Aldosterone is the most potent mineralocorticoid because it plays a crucial role in regulating the balance of water and electrolytes in the body. It acts on the kidneys, promoting the reabsorption of sodium and the excretion of potassium, thereby helping to maintain blood pressure and fluid balance. Deoxycorticosterone is also a mineralocorticoid, but it is less potent than aldosterone. Testosterone, cortisol, and adrenaline are not mineralocorticoids, but rather belong to different classes of hormones with different functions in the body.
12.
Why is it that aldosterone is rapidly cleared from plasma by liver forming tetrahydroaldosterone 3-gluocronide, which is then excreted in the urine?
Correct Answer
C. No specific plasma carrier protein
Explanation
No specific plasma carrier protein, forms weak association with albumin.
Due to lack of specific plasma carrier protein, aldosterone is rapidly cleared from plasma by liver (form tetrahydroaldosterone 3-gluocronide) which will be excreted in the urine.
13.
Which part of the kidney will aldosterone act on?
Correct Answer
A. DCT & CD
Explanation
Same as ADH. It will increase no. of Na+ channels on the apical membrane. The reabsorption of Na will cause a decreased osmolality in the tubules. hence water will be reabsorbed as well via osmotic pull.
14.
Which other parts of the body does aldosterone act on beside the distal tubules of the kidney?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Tongue
B. Stomach
C. Blood vessel
Explanation
It does not only act on kidney tubules for Na+ reabsorption, but also on blood vessels (perspiration), tongue (saliva) and stomach (gastric juice).
15.
For the Na+ to be reabsorbed, Na/K pump will require ATP which will be generated by mitochondrial enzymes (mitochondrial activity increased by aldosterone), therefore Na+ will be reabsorbed, and K+ will be eliminated instead. Therefore, there will be alterations in the acid-base balance of the blood. Loss in basic content (K+) will cause blood to be more..
Correct Answer
A. Acidic
Explanation
The correct answer is acidic. This is because the loss of K+ ions, which are basic, will cause the blood to have a higher concentration of acidic ions relative to basic ions. This shift in the acid-base balance of the blood will make it more acidic.
16.
The kidney compensate the loss of basic K+ from the reabsorption of Na+ by secreting:
Correct Answer(s)
B. K+
C. H+
E. NH+
Explanation
The kidney compensates for the loss of basic K+ from the reabsorption of Na+ by secreting K+, H+, and NH+. This is because when Na+ is reabsorbed, it leads to an increase in H+ concentration in the blood. To maintain acid-base balance, the kidney secretes H+ ions into the urine. This secretion of H+ ions is accompanied by the reabsorption of K+ ions, which helps to compensate for the loss of K+. Additionally, the kidney secretes NH+ ions to help regulate acid-base balance and excrete excess acid.
17.
How is aldosterone release stimulated?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system
C. Low Na+
D. High K+
Explanation
Aldosterone is needed to conserve Na & eliminate K.
Stress will cause release of corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) from hypothalamus ----> Adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) from anterior pituitary ----> act on adrenal gland ----> produce aldosterone.
Aldosterone release will cause increase in blood volume & BP, ensuring adequate delivery of O2/CO2 and nutrients during stressful period.
18.
What is the signs & symptoms of aldosteronism? (hypersecretion of aldosterone)
Correct Answer(s)
B. Hypernatremia
C. Hypokalemia
D. Alkalosis
Explanation
Aldosteronism refers to the excessive secretion of aldosterone hormone. Hypernatremia is a condition characterized by high levels of sodium in the blood, which can occur due to aldosteronism. Hypokalemia is a condition where there is a low level of potassium in the blood, which can also be caused by aldosteronism. Alkalosis refers to an imbalance in the body's pH levels, causing it to become more alkaline, and aldosteronism can contribute to this condition as well. Therefore, hypernatremia, hypokalemia, and alkalosis are all signs and symptoms associated with aldosteronism.
19.
Glucocorticoids circulates in plasma in protein bouund/free form. Which of these is the plasma binding protein of glucocorticoids?
Correct Answer(s)
A. A-globulin
C. Albumin
Explanation
Plasma binding protein : α-globulin/ transcortin/corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) produced in the liver (increased synthesis by estrogens)
Only small amounts bound to albumin (weak association)
Unbound: 8% of total cortisol (biologically active)
20.
Which of these are effect of cortisol?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Increase blood glucose
C. Promote protein metabolisme
D. Weaken immune system
E. Increase blood pressure via aldosterone release
Explanation
Cortisol is a hormone released by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It has several effects on the body, including increasing blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis (the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources), promoting protein metabolism by breaking down muscle tissue to provide amino acids for energy, weakening the immune system by suppressing inflammation and immune responses, and increasing blood pressure by stimulating the release of aldosterone, which promotes sodium and water retention in the kidneys.
21.
Does aldosterone inhibit ADH release?
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
Inhibit ADH release
Binds to cortisol receptors ---> inhibit ADH release ---> increase in free water loss ---> polyuria.
22.
Which of these are signs & symptoms of Cushing's syndrome?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Water & salt retention (aldosterone)
B. Polyuria (inhibit ADH)
C. Tendency to bruising
D. Pendulous abdomen
Explanation
persistent hyperglycemia (high glucose)
loss in muscle & bone protein
water & salt retention (hypertension, oedema) – aldosterone action
swollen ‘moon’ face
buffalo hump
tendency to bruising
poor wound gealing
enhanced anti-inflammatory effects (lack of inflammatory cells)
polyuria, polydipsia – Low ADH
striae
pendulous abdomen
23.
In Addison's disease, we will be able to see:
Correct Answer(s)
A. Deficiency in both glucocorticoids & mineralocorticoids
C. Plasma glucose decrease
D. Dehydration
E. Hypotension
Explanation
Always remember, when there is increase in cortisol, there will be increase in aldosterone but decrease in ADH.
24.
The gonadocorticoids are sex hormones. Which of these are precursors to the sex hormones?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Androsterotenedione
C. DHEA
Explanation
Androsterotenedione and DHEA are precursors to the sex hormones. Androsterotenedione is converted into testosterone and estrogen, while DHEA is converted into testosterone and other androgen hormones. These precursors play a crucial role in the synthesis of sex hormones in both males and females. DHAP and DHT are not precursors to sex hormones and do not have a direct role in their synthesis.
25.
Which of these are active androgens?
Correct Answer(s)
A. DHT
C. Testosterone
Explanation
DHT (dihydrotestosterone) and testosterone are active androgens. Androgens are male sex hormones responsible for the development and maintenance of male characteristics. DHT is a potent androgen that is derived from testosterone and plays a crucial role in male sexual development and function. Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and is responsible for the development of male reproductive tissues and secondary sexual characteristics. Progesterone, DHEA, and estrogen are not active androgens. Progesterone is a female sex hormone, while DHEA and estrogen are primarily involved in female reproductive processes.
26.
In post-menopausal women, the ovaries will be regressed and will be unable to produce oestrogens. However, there are hormones that will try to compensate for the lack of oestrogen production. Which of these are important precursors of oestrogens for post-menopausal woman?
Correct Answer
B. Androgen
Explanation
Post-menopausal women experience a decline in estrogen production due to the regression of the ovaries. However, the body tries to compensate for this lack of estrogen by converting androgens into estrogens. Androgens, which are male sex hormones, can be converted into estrogens in post-menopausal women, thus serving as important precursors for estrogen production. Therefore, androgens are important precursors of estrogens for post-menopausal women.
27.
Gonadocorticoids hypersecretion will cause rapid maturation of reproductive organs & appearance of secondary sex characteristics earlier than most boys. Hypersecretion of gonadocorticoids also will affect females. Which of these are related to hypersecretion in woman?
Correct Answer
B. Androgenital syndrome
Explanation
Develop beard
Masculine pattern of body hair distribution
Clitoris grows to resemble small penis
Also linked to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (another post)
28.
Which of these are physiological stressors?
Correct Answer
A. Pregnancy
Explanation
Pregnancy can be considered a physiological stressor because it causes significant changes in a woman's body, such as hormonal fluctuations, increased blood volume, and weight gain. These changes can put physical stress on the body, leading to various physiological responses. Additionally, pregnancy also involves emotional and psychological stress due to the anticipation of childbirth and the responsibilities of becoming a parent. Therefore, pregnancy can be considered a physiological stressor.
29.
Which of these are physical stressors?
Correct Answer
C. Orthostasis
Explanation
Orthostasis is a physical stressor because it refers to a condition where a person experiences a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing up. This can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting. The change in blood pressure puts stress on the body's cardiovascular system, making orthostasis a physical stressor. On the other hand, pregnancy, acidosis, air pollution, and anger are not physical stressors but rather fall under different categories such as physiological, environmental, or emotional stressors.
30.
Which of these are receptors of pain?
Correct Answer
A. Nocireceptor
Explanation
Receptors:
Nocireceptor: pain
Thermo: temperature
Mechano: physical
Baro: blood pressure
Chemo: glucose, acid, O2
In Special senses: sight, smell
31.
During perception of stress, the action potential goes to which ascending pathways?
Correct Answer
B. Somatic sensory cortex
Explanation
Action potential go to..
-> hypothalamus (neuroendocrine response)
-> somatic sensory cortex (perception/stress)
-> motor cortex (voluntary action response)
-> limbic cortex (emotions)
32.
During emotional stress, the action potential goes to which ascending pathways?
Correct Answer
D. Limbic cortex
Explanation
Action potential go to..
-> hypothalamus (neuroendocrine response)
-> somatic sensory cortex (perception/stress)
-> motor cortex (voluntary action response)
-> limbic cortex (emotions)
33.
During stress, which of these hormones will increase?
Correct Answer(s)
A. CRH, ACTH
B. GHRH
Explanation
Increase in CRH – ACTH
Increase in GHRH, Decrease in somatostatin– Growth Hormone
Decrease in PIH – Increase in Prolactin
Decrease in TRH – TSH
Decrease in GnRH – Gonadotropin
34.
Physical stress: Cold pressor test (immersion of hand in cold water for 3 minutes). What is the effect on blood pressure & heart rate according to the graph?
Correct Answer
A. Increase
Explanation
According to the graph, the effect of the cold pressor test on blood pressure and heart rate is an increase. This means that when the hand is immersed in cold water for 3 minutes, both blood pressure and heart rate will rise.
35.
During stress, there are 2 pathways. One of it is the hypothalamo-sympatho-adrenalmedullary axis activation (Flight/fight response)The afferent sensory pathway is the limbic cortex (perception of stress), and the afferent sensory pathways are the sympathetic nervous system (hypothalamus) releasing NA and the adrenal medualla releasing A, NA, dopamine & opioid peptides. What is the role of the adrenal medulla in flight./fight response?
Correct Answer
C. Prolong effects of hypothalamus
Explanation
Efferent Sensory Pathway:
sympathetic nervous system -->Hypothalamus (release noradrenaline)
Adrenal medulla (release A, NA, dopamine & opioid peptides) prolong effects of hypothalamus (EMERGENCY FUNCTION)
Target organs: Skeletal muscles
Increased energy demands by skeletal muscles
more fuel & O2 needed for aerobic production of ATP
More blood flow to skeletal msucles (supply o2, fuels, elimination of products of metabolism & heat)
36.
During stress, there are 2 pathways. One of it is the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenocortical axis activation (General adaptation syndrome)Based on the graph, there are 3 phases involved:1) Alarm state/Compensation phase2) Resistance phase 3) Exhaustion/Decompensation phaseWhich of these phases where both the sympatho-adrenal & hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenocortical axis are activated?
Correct Answer
A. Compensation pHase
Explanation
Alarm state/Compensation phase:
When the stressor is noticed, there will be onset of shock and decreased resistance.
During this time, both sympatho-adrenal & hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenocortical axis are activated.
Resistance phase:
Resistance to the stressor increased as animal adapted & coped with it
Lasts for as long as the animal can support this heightened resistance.
Exhaustion/Decompensation phase:
Resistance has exhausted
37.
Both adrenaline and noradernaline are secreted during stress. Which of these hormones are secreted when a known familiar stress is encountered?
Correct Answer
B. Noradrenaline
Explanation
Noradrenalin & Adrenaline
equally potent in increasing alertness (adrenaline evokes more anxiety & fear)
Known familiar stress –> more Noradrenaline
Unknown stress – > more Adrenaline
38.
Cortisol secreted during stress allows permissive effects on catecholamines & glucagon. Why is this important?
Correct Answer
A. Essential for survival when stress is severe
Explanation
Glucocorticoids (Cortisol)
Stimulate protein catabolism –> liver uptake of amino acids –> conversion to glucose (gluconeogenesis)
**Anti-insulin action on muscle (own local supply) & adipose tissue (inhibit uptake of glucose)
Increase glucose supply to brain
TG breakdown –> glycerol + FA (fuel for muscle activity)
Increase plasma AA, glucose, glycerol & FA
Permissive effects (gives permission) for:
-Catecholamines (vasoconstriction, bronchodilation, lipolysis)
-Glucagon (gluconeogenesis)
Antiallergic effect
Increase RBC count
Increase neutrophil count
Due to the permissive actions for catecholamines & glucagon, secretion of ACTH & glucocorticoids (cortisol) are essential for survival when stress is severe.
39.
Which of these are effect of prolonged stress on health?
Correct Answer(s)
B. Cardiovascular disease
C. Glucocorticoids in large amount can suppress immune system
D. Glucocorticoids in large amount can increase protein catabolisme (muscle loss)
Explanation
Prolonged stress can have various effects on health, including cardiovascular disease. This is because stress can lead to elevated blood pressure, increased heart rate, and inflammation, which can contribute to the development of cardiovascular problems. Additionally, prolonged stress can result in the release of glucocorticoids in large amounts, which can suppress the immune system. This can make individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases. Furthermore, excessive glucocorticoids can also increase protein catabolism, leading to muscle loss.
40.
What is the effect of short term stressors?
Correct Answer
A. Boost immune system
Explanation
Instead, long term stressors will suppress immune system. Effects are more serious on the elderly & those that are already ill.
HIV +ve patients will experience rapid decline in T-helper cells if only provided with low social support.
41.
Negative emotional states will bring about these effects:
Correct Answer(s)
A. Decrease lympHocyte proliferation & reactivity
B. Decrease T-cell function
C. Decrease NK activity
Explanation
IgA will decrease.
Epstein-Barr virus will increase. (DAMAGING!)
42.
What is Cushing's syndrome?
Correct Answer
B. High cortisol
Explanation
Cushing's syndrome is a hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate metabolism and respond to stress. In Cushing's syndrome, the body produces excessive amounts of cortisol, leading to a variety of symptoms such as weight gain, high blood pressure, and muscle weakness. Therefore, the correct answer is "High cortisol."
43.
Pituitary Cushing's Syndrome is not due to hypercortisolism, but due to hyper-ACTH.Which of these are the likely causes of hyper-ACTH?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Pituitary corticotropH adenoma
C. Excessive CRH secretion from hypothalamus
Explanation
Overactivity of pituitary alone is not enough to cause Cushing's, as it is not specific and constant in duration and volume.
44.
Adrenal Cushing's Syndrome is due to hypercortisolism (without high levels of ACTH) due to the hypersecretion which originates in the adrenal gland. Which of these are the likely cause of Adrenal Cushing's Syndrome?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Adrenal cortical adenoma
B. Adrenal cortical carcinoma
D. Adrenal cortical hyperplasia
Explanation
Adrenal Cushing's is not indfluenced by hormonal stimulation of ACTH/CRH. If ACTH level is high, it is known as Pituitary Cushing's Syndrome.
45.
What will happen to the Adrenal Cortex if there is hypersecretion of ACTH from the pituitary?
Correct Answer
C. Bilateral cortical hyperplasia
Explanation
If there is hypersecretion of ACTH from the pituitary, it will stimulate the adrenal cortex to produce excessive amounts of cortisol. This chronic stimulation can lead to bilateral cortical hyperplasia, which is an enlargement of both adrenal cortices. This occurs as a compensatory response to the increased ACTH levels and cortisol production.
46.
What is the treatment for Pituitary Cushing's Syndrome?
Correct Answer
A. Dexamethasone
Explanation
Dexamethasone is the treatment for Pituitary Cushing's Syndrome. This glucocorticoid medication is commonly used to suppress the production of cortisol, which is elevated in Cushing's Syndrome. By reducing cortisol levels, dexamethasone helps to alleviate the symptoms of the condition. It is important to note that dexamethasone should be used under medical supervision, as it can have side effects and interactions with other medications.
47.
For Adrenal Cushing's Syndrome, does it respond to high dose of glucocorticoid?
Correct Answer
B. No
Explanation
Probably because glucocorticoid will stimulate the hypothalamus. In this case, adrenal cushing's is specifically due to an adrenal cortical lesion.
48.
Cushing's Syndrome can also be caused by an ectopic lesion. Which hormone will be in high levels?
Correct Answer
B. ACTH
Explanation
Cushing's Syndrome is a condition characterized by high levels of cortisol in the body. In some cases, it can be caused by an ectopic lesion, which refers to a tumor or abnormal growth outside of the normal location. In this scenario, the ectopic lesion would be producing excessive amounts of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone). ACTH stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, leading to the high levels observed in Cushing's Syndrome. Therefore, the hormone that will be in high levels in this case is ACTH.
49.
In Pituitary Cushing's syndrome, Dexamethasone can be used as a treatment to suppress the ACTH secretion. In the case of an Ectopic Cushing's syndrome which also hypersecretes ACTH, does Dexamethasone work as a treatment?
Correct Answer
B. No
Explanation
Why?
Dexamethasone acts on Pituitary alone.
50.
In organ transplant patients or with autoimmune diseases, glucocorticoids/ACTH is administered for therapeutic purposes. However, with prolonged administration of glucocorticoids/ACTH, what problems will the patient develop?
Correct Answer
B. Cushing's syndrome
Explanation
This is a Iatrogenic Cushing's Syndrome