Biopsychology: The Endocrine system Flashcards
The endocrine system
A network of glands. Glands release hormones into the bloodstream.
The role of glands are to…..
To secrete hormones which will have an impact to a target organ
Hormones
Chemicals produced by your glands that regulate the activity of cells/organs in the body
How are hormones transferred?
Through the bloodstream`
How does the endocrine system compare to the nervous system?
Works at a slower rate which has widespread and powerful effects
What does the endocrine system maintain
A level of homeostasis
What glands are controlled by the hypothalamus?
Endocrine glands
What does the pituitary gland do?
Produces and secretes hormones that influence the release of hormones from other glands
What does the anterior pituitary gland release in response to stress, and what gland does this hormone stimulate?
releases ACTH in response to stress
ACTH stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol
Where is the pituitary gland located?
Hypothalamus
What 3 hormones does the anterior pituitary gland produce?
ACTH
LH - Luteinising hormone
FSH - Follicle stimulating hormone
LH and FSH are secreted by the anterior pituitary gland, which stimulate what? (males and females)
Females: stimulate ovaries to produce oestrogen and progesterone
Males: stimulates testes to produce testosterone and sperm
What does the posterior pituitary release, and what does this stimulate?
Oxytocin
Stimulates contraction of uterus during childbirth
Where are the adrenal glands located?
on top of each kidney
What is each adrenal gland made up of?
Adrenal cortex (outer part) Adrenal medulla (inner part)
hormones released by the adrenal ______ are necessary for life
cortex
What is the outer part of the adrenal glands called?
Adrenal cortex
What is the inner part of the adrenal glands called?
Adrenal medulla
What hormone does the adrenal cortex mainly produce, and what does this hormone do?
Cortisol
Supports cardiovascular & anti-inflammatory functions
When does cortisol production increase?
In response to stress
What does a low cortisol level mean?
Poor immune function, low blood pressure, inability to deal with stress
What other hormone does the adrenal cortex produce, and what does this hormone do?
Aldosterone
Maintains blood volume and blood pressure
What hormones does the adrenal medulla release, and what do these hormones do?
Adrenaline and noradrenaline
Prepare body for fight or flight response
What does adrenaline do?
helps body response in a stressful situation
Increases heart rate, elevates blood pressure, helps w/ conversion of glycogen to glucose to provide energy
What does noradrenaline do?
Constricts blood vessels causing blood pressure to increase
