which gland is responsible for regulating metabolism

HESI A2

HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology

1. Which gland is responsible for regulating metabolism?

A. Pituitary gland
B. Adrenal gland
C. Thyroid gland
D. Pineal gland

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating metabolism. It produces hormones such as thyroxine, which plays a key role in influencing the body's metabolic rate. The pituitary gland is known as the 'master gland' but is not directly responsible for regulating metabolism. The adrenal gland is involved in the stress response and producing hormones like cortisol, not primarily regulating metabolism. The pineal gland produces melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles, not metabolism. Therefore, the correct answer is the thyroid gland.

2. What is the primary function of the cardiovascular system?

A. To transport oxygen and nutrients
B. To remove waste products
C. To regulate body temperature
D. To fight infections

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "To transport oxygen and nutrients." The primary function of the cardiovascular system is to transport oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to cells throughout the body and remove waste products. This system plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis by delivering essential substances to tissues and organs while eliminating metabolic waste. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because although the cardiovascular system indirectly helps in removing waste products through circulation, its primary function is focused on transporting essential substances and not on regulating body temperature or fighting infections.

3. Which organ system is primarily responsible for regulating muscle growth?

A. The skeletal system
B. The endocrine system
C. The nervous system
D. The reproductive system

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The endocrine system is primarily responsible for regulating muscle growth through the production and release of hormones such as growth hormone, testosterone, and insulin-like growth factors. These hormones play crucial roles in stimulating muscle protein synthesis, increasing muscle mass, and promoting overall muscle growth and repair. The skeletal system provides structural support for muscles but does not directly regulate muscle growth. The nervous system controls muscle contractions and movements but is not primarily responsible for muscle growth. The reproductive system plays a role in fertility and secondary sexual characteristics but does not have a direct role in regulating muscle growth.

4. The spleen is part of which system?

A. nervous system
B. integumentary system
C. lymphatic system
D. urinary system

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: lymphatic system. The spleen is a vital organ in the lymphatic system, responsible for filtering blood, producing and storing white blood cells, and aiding the body in fighting infections. The lymphatic system is crucial for maintaining the body's immune defenses and fluid balance. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the spleen is not part of the nervous system, integumentary system, or urinary system.

5. Which of the following is not an example of a nonspecific immune response?

A. Inflammation
B. Vasodilation
C. Release of histamine
D. Production of antibodies

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Production of antibodies.' Antibodies are generated as part of the specific immune response, which targets specific antigens. Nonspecific immune responses, such as inflammation, vasodilation, and histamine release, are general defense mechanisms aimed at combating various pathogens. Inflammation is a localized response to infection or injury, vasodilation increases blood flow to the affected area, and histamine release triggers inflammatory responses. It's vital to differentiate between nonspecific responses that provide immediate, general protection and specific responses designed to tackle particular threats.