Kaplan Nursing Entrance Exam Practice 2026 – Comprehensive Prep

The regulation of hormone production and secretion is primarily controlled by a negative feedback loop. In this process, the body continuously monitors hormone levels and adjusts production based on the current status of those levels. When a hormone reaches a certain concentration, it signals the endocrine glands to reduce or halt further production, thus maintaining homeostasis.

For instance, in the case of thyroid hormones, when levels are sufficiently high, they inhibit the release of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) from the pituitary gland, which in turn reduces stimulation of the thyroid gland. This self-regulating mechanism prevents excessive hormone secretion and ensures that hormone levels remain within a healthy range.

Understanding the nature of feedback loops is critical in grasping endocrine function and hormonal regulation in the body. Positive feedback, in contrast, amplifies changes rather than stabilizing them, which is typically not how hormone regulation operates. Neutral and chain feedback loops are not commonly recognized mechanisms for regulating hormone secretion in the body.