5.3.3

Thyroxine

Test yourself

Thyroxine

Thyroxine is the main hormone secreted (released) by the thyroid gland. It increases the basal (resting) metabolic rate.

Illustrative background for PurposeIllustrative background for Purpose ?? "content

Purpose

  • Thyroxine is responsible for regulating the growth and brain development of young animals.
Illustrative background for RegulationIllustrative background for Regulation ?? "content

Regulation

  • Production is regulated by a negative feedback loop. This allows the body to maintain a fairly constant concentration of thyroxine in the blood.
    • When the concentration of thyroid hormones, such as thyroxine, in the blood is low, the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is increased. This stimulates the secretion of thyroxine by the thyroid gland.
    • When the concentration of thyroid hormones in the blood is high, TSH production is decreased.

Jump to other topics

1Cell Biology

1.1What's in Cells?

1.2Cell Division

1.3Transport in Cells

2Organisation

2.1Principles of Organisation

2.2Enzymes

2.3Circulatory System

2.4Non-Communicable Diseases

2.5Plant Tissues, Organs & Systems

3Infection & Response

4Bioenergetics

5Homeostasis & Response

5.1Homeostasis

5.2The Human Nervous System

5.3Hormonal Coordination in Humans

5.4Plant Hormones

6Inheritance, Variation & Evolution

7Ecology

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson