4.5.3.1 Human endocrine system Flashcards
Give the name of the body’s coordination
system which involves hormones
The endocrine system
What is a hormone?
A hormone is a chemical messenger
secreted by a gland. It travels in the blood to
a target organ, where it causes a response.
What type of organ secretes hormones?
Glands
Which gland controls many other glands in the
body?
The pituitary gland
Why is the pituitary gland considered a ‘master
gland’?
It secretes a wide range of hormones,
some of which may stimulate other
endocrine glands.
What is the role of the pituitary gland in the endocrine
system?
● Secretes human growth hormone - controls human
growth.
● Stimulates the thyroid gland.
● Stimulates ovulation and the production of oestrogen in
the ovaries.
● Stimulates the production of sperm and testosterone in
the testes
What is the role of the thyroid gland in the
endocrine system?
Secretes the hormone thyroxine - controls
metabolism, heart rate and body
temperature.
What is the role of the pancreas in the endocrine
system?
Secretes the hormone insulin - controls
blood glucose levels.
What is the role of the adrenal gland in the
endocrine system?
Secretes adrenaline - controls the body’s
‘fight or flight’ response
What is the role of the ovaries in the endocrine
system?
Secrete oestrogen, which coordinates the
menstrual cycle and the development of
female secondary sexual characteristics.
What is the role of the testes in the endocrine
system?
Secrete testosterone, which coordinates the
production of sperm and the development of
male secondary sexual characteristics.
What is the role of the testes in the endocrine
system?
Secrete testosterone, which coordinates the
production of sperm and the development of
male secondary sexual characteristics.
