Endocrinology Exam Questions and Answers Related

Review Endocrinology Exam Questions and Answers related questions and content

All of the following represent examples of hypothalamic-pituitary negative feedback except:

  • A. Cortisol on the CRH-ACTH axis
  • B. Gonadal steroids on the GnRH-LH/FSH axis
  • C. IGF-1 on the growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH)-GH axis
  • D. Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis does not involve the hypothalamus or pituitary gland; instead, it primarily involves the kidneys and the renin-secreting cells. In this axis, renin is released in response to low blood pressure, leading to the formation of angiotensin II and the subsequent release of aldosterone from the adrenal glands. Feedback mechanisms for this axis primarily involve the regulation of renin release based on blood pressure rather than involving direct negative feedback from downstream hormones on the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. On the other hand, choices A, B, and C all involve classic examples of hypothalamic-pituitary negative feedback loops where the end hormone suppresses the release of the stimulating hormones at the hypothalamic and pituitary levels.