Lesson 4 - Endocrine System Flashcards
How does the endocrine system communicate signals
- Endocrine glands produce and secrete hormones into bloodstream
- Major glands are pituitary and adrenal glands
How do hormones translate their signal into a physiological response
- Target cells respond to particular hormones via receptors
* When enough receptor sites are stimulated there is a physiological response
Where is the pituitary gland located
- In the brain
* Controlled by hypothalamus
What does the pituitary gland do
Produces hormones which influence release of other hormones in other glands
What is the process of the pituitary gland’s actions
• Hypothalamus receives information
• Sends signal to pituitary gland
-releasing hormone(1)
• Pituitary gland sends stimulating hormone(2) into bloodstream
-tell target gland to release hormone(3)
• When hormone(3) levels rise then
- hypothalamus stops releasing hormone(1) production
- pituitary gland stops stimulating hormone(2) secretion
What are the two divisions of the pituitary gland
- Anterior pituitary gland
* Posterior pituitary gland
What does the anterior pituitary gland do
Releases ACTH which regulates cortisol levels
What does the posterior pituitary gland do
Releases oxytocin which is crucial for infant/mother bonding
Where are the (two) adrenal glands located
On top of the kidneys
What are the two sections of the adrenal glands called
- Adrenal cortex (outer)
* Adrenal medulla (inner)
What does the adrenal cortex do
• Produces cortisol
-high amounts when someone experiences chronic stress
What does the adrenal medulla do
• Produces adrenaline
-produced for fight or flight response, when someone is acutely stressed
What does cortisol do
Cortisol responsible for cardiovascular system
- blood pressure increases
- blood vessels constrict
What does adrenaline do
Adrenaline increases heart rate, dilates pupils, stops digestion
