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Physiology · USMLE Step 1

USMLE Physiology: Endocrine and Reproductive Regulation

Hormone feedback loop mechanisms and reproductive cycle physiology tested on USMLE Step 1, distinct from the disease-focused Endocrine and Reproductive Medicine decks.

34 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.

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In the HPA axis, the hypothalamus releases ____, which stimulates the anterior pituitary to secrete ACTH.
CRH
What is the principal negative feedback target of cortisol in the HPA axis?
The hypothalamus and anterior pituitary (suppressing CRH and ACTH release)
In the HPT axis, TRH from the hypothalamus stimulates the anterior pituitary to release ____.
TSH
What effect do circulating T3 and T4 have on TSH and TRH secretion?
Negative feedback, they suppress TSH and TRH release
What pattern of GnRH secretion is required to stimulate normal LH and FSH release?
Pulsatile secretion
What happens to LH and FSH secretion when GnRH is given continuously instead of pulsatile?
LH and FSH secretion decreases due to receptor downregulation
Which hormone surge directly triggers ovulation?
LH surge
Under what estrogen condition does estrogen switch from negative to positive feedback on GnRH and LH release?
When estrogen is high and sustained for about 48 hours, in the late follicular phase
What effect does estrogen have on gonadotropin release at low to moderate levels?
Negative feedback, it suppresses LH and FSH release
How does progesterone affect GnRH pulse frequency during the luteal phase?
It decreases GnRH pulse frequency (negative feedback)
Which ovarian cell type is the principal target of FSH?
Granulosa cells
According to the two cell, two gonadotropin theory, theca cells make androgens under LH stimulation, which granulosa cells convert to ____ under FSH stimulation.
estrogen
What enzyme converts androgens to estrogens in granulosa cells?
Aromatase
What is the function of inhibin B secreted by granulosa cells?
It selectively inhibits FSH secretion
Which four hormones share a common alpha subunit?
LH, FSH, TSH, and hCG

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