Biopsych - endocrine system Flashcards
What is the endocrine system
Network of glands across body that secrete hormones responsible for slow body processes, e.g cell growth
What is a gland
Body organ that releases hormones into bloodstream
What is a hormone
Chemical released from endocrine glands into bloodstream that alters function of target structures
What is adrenaline
Hormone released from adrenal medulla, and acts on heart and circulatory systems as part of fight or flight response
How many components make up the endocrine system
8
What are the 8 components that make up the endocrine system
- Hypothalamus
- Pituitary gland
- Pineal gland
- Thyroid
- Adrenal medulla
- Adrenal cortex
- Testes
- Ovaries
What is the function of the hypothalamus
Controlling release of hormones from pituitary gland, regulating the endocrine system
What is the function of the pituitary gland (master gland)
Releases hormones that control release of hormones in other glands of endocrine system
What is the main hormone secreted from the pineal gland
Melatonin
What is the effects of the pineal gland and the secretion of melatonin
Regulates arousal, biological rhythms and sleep-wake cycle
What is the main hormone secreted from the thyroid gland
Thyroxine
What is the effects of the thyroid gland and the secretion of thyroxine
Regulates metabolic rate and protein synthesis
What is the main hormone secreted from the adrenal medulla
Adrenaline and noradrenaline
What is the effects of the adrenal medulla and the secretion of nor/adrenaline
Fight or flight response, increased HR and blood flow, release of stored glucose and fats
What is the main hormone secreted from the adrenal cortex
Glucocorticoids e.g cortisol
What is the effects of the adrenal cortex and the secretion of glucocorticoids e.g cortisol
Release of stored glucose and fats, suppression of immune system
What is the main hormone secreted from the testes
Androgens, mainly testosterone
What is the effects of the testes and the secretion of androgens (testosterone)
Development of male secondary sexual characteristics at puberty. Muscle mass/growth
What is the main hormone secreted from the ovaries
Oestrogens, mainly oestradiol
What is the effects of the ovaries and the secretion of oestrogens, mainly oestradiol
Regulation of female reproductive system, menstrual cycle and pregnancy
What are the 6 main hormones distributed by the pituitary gland to target other glands
ACTH - adrenal cortex
FSH - ovaries/testes
TSH - thyroid gland
Growth hormone - general cell growth
Prolactin - mammary glands
MSH - stimulates release of melanin
