Endocrine regulation · USMLE Step 1

Which of the following best describes a ‘tropic’ hormone?

  1. A hormone that acts on the same gland that secreted it
  2. A hormone that regulates metabolism directly in peripheral tissues
  3. A hormone that stimulates another endocrine gland to release a hormone
  4. A peptide hormone derived from cholesterol
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: A hormone that stimulates another endocrine gland to release a hormone

Tropic hormones are those secreted by one endocrine gland (e.g., pituitary) that stimulate another endocrine gland to release its hormone (e.g., TSH → thyroid gland).

Difficulty: Medium Question 7 of 23

Practice all 23 Endocrine regulation questions

Keep practicing

More Endocrine regulation questions