4- endocrine system

Question 1

describe the endocrine system

Answer 1

• provides chemical system of communication in the body via the blood stream
• glands produce and secrete hormones to regulate bodily functions
• each gland produces different hormones
• hormones only affect target cells which have a receptor for that hormones
• when enough receptor sites are stimulated, there is a physiological reaction

Question 2

where is the pituitary gland and what does it do

Answer 2

• located in the brain
• produces hormones which influence release of other hormones from other glands in the body
• controlled by hypothalamus

Question 3

how does the hypothalamus control the pituitary gland

Answer 3

1. hypothalamus receives info from many sources about basic functions
2. hypothalamus sends signal to pituitary gland by releasing a hormone
3. causes pituitary gland to send stimulating hormone into bloodstream to target cells
4. as hormone levels rise, hypothalamus stops production of releasing hormone and pituitary gland shuts secretion

Question 4

describe the function of the anterior pituitary gland

Answer 4

• releases ACTH

- prepares body for fight or flight when stressed

Question 5

describe the function of the posterior pituitary gland

Answer 5

• releases oxytocin

- crucial for infant/mother bonding and childbirth

Question 6

where are the adrenal glands

Answer 6

• 2 glands situated on top of the kidneys

- each is made up of 2 distinct parts

Question 7

describe the adrenal cortex

Answer 7

• outer section
• produces cortisol which is produced in high amounts when chronically stressed
• also responsible for the cardiovascular system (e.g. increase BP and cause blood vessels to constrict)

Question 8

describe the adrenal medulla

Answer 8

• inner section
• produces adrenaline which is needed for fight or flight and activated when acutely stressed
• increase heart rate, dilates pupils and stops digestion