🔄 Hormones – Endocrine System Essentials You Must Know

The endocrine system manages everything from growth and metabolism to reproduction—and the DAT loves to ask about it. Expect at least 1–3 biology questions on hormones, glands, or feedback regulation.

Today, we’ll break down:

• Endocrine gland-hormone pairings

• Hormone types (steroid vs peptide)

• Key functions and feedback logic

• DAT-style example questions

🧠 Must-Know Hormones by Gland

Gland	Hormone	Function
Hypothalamus	TRH, CRH, GnRH	Stimulates anterior pituitary hormone release
Anterior Pituitary	GH, LH, FSH, ACTH	Stimulates growth, gonads, adrenal cortex
Posterior Pituitary	ADH, Oxytocin	Water retention, uterine contraction
Thyroid	T3/T4, Calcitonin	Metabolism, lowers blood calcium
Parathyroid	PTH	Raises blood calcium
Adrenal Cortex	Cortisol, Aldosterone	Stress response, Na⁺/K⁺ balance
Adrenal Medulla	Epinephrine	Fight-or-flight (SNS activation)
Pancreas	Insulin, Glucagon	Blood glucose regulation
Ovaries/Testes	Estrogen, Testosterone	Reproductive development

🧠 DAT Tip: Know which are peptide vs. steroid hormones (steroids = cortisol, estrogen, testosterone, aldosterone).

🔄 Hormone Feedback Loops (DAT Favorite!)

• Negative feedback = most common

  • Example: T3/T4 inhibits TSH and TRH release

• Positive feedback = rare

  • Example: Oxytocin during labor → ↑ uterine contractions → more oxytocin

🧠 Understand direction of control: Hypothalamus → Pituitary → Target gland

📈 DAT-Style Practice Question

Q: A person has high ACTH levels and high cortisol. Which gland is likely the problem?
A: Pituitary (overproducing ACTH, stimulating adrenal cortex)

✅ DAT often tests logic: is the issue primary (target gland) or secondary (pituitary)?

🎯 How to Study Hormones Effectively

✅ Use KOTC visuals to memorize gland-hormone pairs
✅ Make flashcards for hormone function + feedback type
✅ Know which are peptide vs steroid vs amino-acid derived
✅ Practice endocrine pathology questions in the Q-bank
✅ Watch animations in KOTC Classroom for clarity on pathways

Explore full resources at kingofthecurve.org/studyscience

🚀 Call-to-Action

Want to control your DAT like a hormonal boss?

Download the King of the Curve App for:

• Visual breakdowns of hormones & pathways

• Endocrine flashcards

• Gamified DAT-style practice

• Leaderboards + rewards for top-scoring science content

💡 Memorize, master, and crush hormone questions—faster with KOTC.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How many hours should I study for the MCAT each day?

  Aim for 4-6 focused hours, ensuring you incorporate breaks to avoid burnout.

• What is the best way to handle test anxiety?

  Practice mindfulness techniques, take practice exams under realistic conditions, and maintain a balanced lifestyle.

• How can I stay motivated during the long application process?

  Set short-term goals, seek support from mentors, and reward yourself for small achievements.

• What role does exercise play in MCAT preparation?

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• How does King of the Curve help with MCAT preparation?

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