Biopsychology: Endocrine System Flashcards
Name the glands in the endocrine system.
- Hypothalamus
- Pituitary gland
- Adrenal gland
- Pineal gland
- Thyroid gland
- Testes
- Ovaries
Adrenal gland
structure and function:
Composed of two parts, the medulla and the cortex.
The cortex being on the inside and the medulla on the outside
The medulla releases Adrenaline and Nor-Adrenalin. These are key hormones in the fight or flight response
The cortex releases the cortisol hormone which increases the production on glucose which is used for energy, whilst suppressing the digestive system
The pituitary gland
Structure and function:
Also known as the master gland. Which releases stimulating hormones
It is composed of the anterior and posterior (front any back).
The anterior releases: Adrenocortical trophic hormone (ACTH). This stimulates the adrenal cortex during the stress response
The posterior releases: Oxytocin. This is responsible for uterus contractions during childbirth
Thyroid gland
The thyroid gland releases: THYROXINE.
This is responsible for metabolic processes. This affects the ability of some people to gain and loose weight
Pineal gland:
This is situated just behind the Hypothalamus.
It receives light information from the (SCN).
It secretes: MELATONIN, which is responsible for biological rhythms such as the sleep/wake cycle
Testes:
The testes secrete the androgens testosterone.
This is responsible for muscle growth and the development of sex characteristics during puberty in males
Ovaries:
Ovaries release oestrogen which is responsible for regulation of the the female menstrual cycle and regulates the female reproductive system
Hypothalamus:
It sits connected to the the pituitary gland and is responsible for controlling the release of hormones from the pituitary gland.
