2.5 Endocrine System Flashcards
What is the endocrine system?
The endocrine system is made up of glands which secrete chemicals called hormones directly into the bloodstream
How are hormones carried?
Where are hormones carried to?
Hormones are carried by the blood to a target organ, which produces an effect
How does the target organs detect hormones?
Target organs have receptors on the cell membranes that pick up hormone molecules, triggering a response
Why do hormonal responses act slower than nervous responses?
Hormonal responses are slower than nervous responses because they travel through the bloodstream, so they take time to reach the target organ
Why do hormonal responses last longer than nervous responses?
Hormones remain in the bloodstream for some time after release
Define and explain the role of the pituitary gland
- The pituitary gland in the brain is the ‘master gland’, which secretes hormones into the blood in response to body conditions
- The hormones act on other glands to stimulate other hormones to be released to bring about effects
Why is the pituitary gland known as the “master gland”
Because it coordinates and controls other endocrine glands through hormones
How is the blood glucose concentration is monitored and controlled?
The blood glucose concentration is monitored and controlled by the pancreas
When does blood glucose concentration typically rise?
Blood glucose concentration typically rises after you have eaten a meal
What happens when the blood glucose concentration is too high?
The pancreas produces insulin
What is insulin?
Insulin is a hormone that allows glucose to move from the blood into the cells where it is used
Explain how glycogen is stored
Excess glucose is converted to glycogen for storage in liver and muscle cells
What happens when the blood glucose concentration is too low?
When the blood glucose concentration is too low, the pancreas produces glucagon
What is glucagon?
Glucagon is a hormone that causes the liver to break down glycogen and convert it back into glucose
What is type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is a disorder in which the pancreas fails to produce enough or any insulin
What are the effects of type 1 diabetes?
- The blood glucose levels become very high after you eat
- The kidneys excrete glucose in urine
- Lack of energy and tiredness
How is type 1 diabetes usually treated?
Type 1 diabetes is usually treated with insulin injections
What is type 2 diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is when the body cells no longer respond to insulin
What is the effect of type 2 diabetes?
Blood glucose levels are high all the time
How is Type 2 diabetes commonly treated?
Type 2 diabetes is commonly treated through a carbohydrate controlled diet and an exercise regime
Why is obesity a risk factor for type 2 diabetes?
There is excess blood glucose from the diet, so the body cells become resistant to insulin
What happens if body cells lose or gain too much water by osmosis?
If body cells lose or gain too much water by osmosis they do not function efficiently