Biopsychology - The Endocrine System Flashcards
What are the key features of the endocrine system?
The endocrine system works alongside the nervous system to control vital functions in the body through the action of hormones.
It works more slowly than the nervous system, but has widespread and powerful effects.
What are glands?
Glands are organs in the body that produce hormones.
The key endocrine gland is the pituitary gland located in the brain. It can also be known as the ‘master gland’ because it controls the release of hormones from all the other endocrine glands in the body.
What are hormones?
Hormones are secreted in the bloodstream and affect any cell in the body that has a receptor for that particular hormone.
What is the role of the pituitary gland and what hormone does it secrete?
The mastery gland that controls the other glands.
It releases ACTH to stimulate the adrenal cortex.
What is the role of the adrenal gland and what hormone does it release?
Its role is to trigger the fight or flight response.
And it releases adrenaline and noradrenaline.
What is the role of the thyroid gland and what hormone does it release?
It releases thyroxine, which regulates metabolism and energy.
What is the role of the pancreas and what hormone does it release?
It releases insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar level.
What is the role of the testes and what hormone do they release?
They release testosterone which influences male sexual characteristics and aggression.
What is the role of the ovaries and what hormone do they release?
Release oestrogen and progesterone which regulate reproduction and the menstrual cycle.
