Biopsychology: The Endocrine System - Hormones Flashcards
What is the hypothalamus?
The hypothalamus is connected to the pituitary gland and is responsible for stimulating or controlling the release of hormones from the pituitary gland.
- regulates the endocrine system
What is the pituitary gland?
-The pituitary gland is sometimes known as the master gland because the hormones released by the pituitary gland control and stimulate the release of hormones from other glands in the endocrine system.
What is a key hormone released from the posterior lobe?
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.
What is a key hormone released from the anterior lobe?
A key hormone released from the anterior lobe is adrenocortical trophic hormone (ACTH) which stimulates the adrenal cortex and the release of cortisol, during the stress response.
What is the main hormone from the pinal gland?
The main hormone released from the pineal gland is melatonin, which is responsible for important biological rhythms, including the sleep-wake cycle.
What is a thyroid gland?
The thyroid gland releases thyroxine which is responsible for regulating metabolism.
People who have a fast metabolism typically struggle to put on weight, as metabolism is involved in the chemical process of converting food into energy.
What is the adrenal gland split into?
The adrenal gland is divided into two parts, the adrenal medulla and the adrenal cortex.
What is the adrenal medulla?
The adrenal medulla is responsible for releasing adrenaline and noradrenaline, which play a key role in the fight or flight response.
What is the adrenal cortex?
The adrenal cortex releases cortisol, which stimulates the release of glucose to provide the body with energy while suppressing the immune system.
What do the testes release?
the testes release androgens, which include the main hormone testosterone. Testosterone is responsible for the development of male sex characteristics during puberty while also promoting muscle growth.
What do ovaries release?
In females, the ovaries release oestrogen which controls the regulation of the female reproductive system, including the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
What is the endocrine system?
The endocrine system works alongside the nervous system. It is a network of glands across the body that secrete chemical messages called hormones.
What does the hypothalamus?
Stimulates and controls the release of hormones from the pituitary gland
