endocrine system Flashcards
what does the endocrine system consist of?
the endocrine system consists of a series of glands
what do glands do
glands secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream
What hormone does the adrenal glands release?
What does this hormone control?
Adrenaline
It controls heartrate and blood glucose going to muscles allowing them to contract/relax (fight or flight)
Where are the adrenal glands located?
on top of the kidneys
What hormones do the ovaries release?
What does these hormones control?
Oestrogen (Progesterone, FSH, LH)
Controls female puberty and the menstrual cycle and hold the female gametes (egg cells)
(only found in females)
What hormone does the testes release?
What does this hormone do?
Testosterone
Controls male puberty and producing male gametes (sperm production)
(only found in males)
What hormones do the pancreas release?
What do these hormones control?
Insulin and Glucagon
Regulate and controls blood glucose concentration
Where is the pancreas located in the body?
in front of the kidneys
What is the other name for the pituitary gland?
What does it do?
The master gland
Tells other glands to release hormones (e.g: Thyroid stimulating hormone - TSH) + tell body what to do
Where is the pituitary gland located?
near the brain
What hormone does the thyroid release?
What does this hormone do?
Thyroxine Regulates metabolism (important role in growth and development)
where is the thyroid gland located
in the neck
comparison of the endorcine system with the nervous system
- the nervous system uses electrical impulses which travel down neurons WHEREAS the endocrine system uses hormones (which are chemicals which are carried in the bloodstream)
- the signals in the nervous system are very fast WHEREAS the endocrine system provides a much slower effect and the effect more long-lasting
