Biopsychology: The endocrine system Flashcards
What is the endocrine system and what do the endocrine glands produce and secrete…
A network of glands transporting hormones via blood vessels.
They secrete hormones.
What are hormones?
Chemical substances that regulate the activity of body cells and organs.
How is endocrine system different from nervous system?
It works slower than nervous system but has widespread and powerful effects.
Where are hormones secreted into?
The blood stream.
What is the major endocrine gland known as?
Pituitary gland
Where is the pituitary gland located in?
The brain
Known as master gland - control all release of hormones from all other endocrine glands in body.
What does pituitary gland secrete?
ACTH
Specific hormone released
What are the two parts of the pituitary gland?
- Anterior: ACTH, LH, FSH
- Posterior: Oxytocin
What is the thyroid gland concerned with?
Metabolism
e.g overreactive thyroid - lose weight
linked with age and weight
Produces thyroxine
What is adrenal gland concerned with?
Adrenal medulla - adrenaline - fight or flight
Adrenal cortex - cortisol - long-term stress
What are the four glands we have to learn about?
- Pituitary gland
- Adrenal gland
- Testes gland
- Ovaries gland
What is function of pituitary gland?
- Releases hormones - regulating body functions and controlled by the hypothalamus- receiving information from many sources for basic function.
- A key hormone released from the posterior lobe is oxytocin (often referred to as the ‘love hormone’) which is responsible for uterus contractions during childbirth. A key hormone released from the anterior lobe is the adrenocortical trophic hormone (ACTH) which stimulates the adrenal cortex and the release of cortisol, during the stress response.
- Hormone ACTH
- The pituitary gland controls metabolism, growth, sexual maturation, reproduction, blood pressure and many other vital physical functions and processes.
What is the function of adrenal gland?
- It is at the top of kidney, each gland is made up of adrenal cortex (outer part) and adrenal medulla (inner part).
- Adrenal Cortex produces cortisol, which regulates a variety of functions like cardiovascular and anti inflammatory.
- Adrenal Medulla: Controls hormones that initiate the flight or fight response.
- Hormones released by low blood pressure.
What are the testes?
- Hormone - testosterone
- Testes produce this hormone which is responsible for growth of facial hair and growth spurt , deepening of voice during puberty.
- Testosterone play a huge role in sex drive, sperm production , muscle strength maintenance and overall health and well being.
What are ovaries?
- They’re responsible for the production of eggs and for the hormone oestrogen and progesterone. Progesterone is more prone in the post ovulation stage. Has also been associated with heightened sensitivity to social cues.
