somatostatin

n. a hormone secreted by the hypothalamus that inhibits the release of growth hormone (somatotropin) by the anterior pituitary gland. It is also secreted by cells in the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas, where it inhibits the secretion of insulin and glucagon. Analogues of somatostatin are used therapeutically in the control of acromegaly. Also called somatotropin-release inhibiting factor (SRIF).

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Psychology term of the day

November 19th 2024

sex education

a formal course of instruction in reproductive processes that is presented in a classroom setting. Sex education ideally provides young adolescents with authoritative and objective information about both the psychological and physical aspects of sexual behavior.