Lesson 4 - The Endocrine System

Question 1

What is the endocrine system

Answer 1

-network of glands throughout the body that manufacture and secrete hormones
-blood vessels used to deliver hormones to the target site of the body instead of nerves

Question 2

Define a hormone

Answer 2

A chemical that circulates in the bloodstream and usually affects a limited number of cells

Question 3

What is a target cell

Answer 3

A cell that responds to a particular hormone because they have receptors for it

Question 4

What is the pituitary gland and what is its function

Answer 4

-master gland - consists of two main parts (anterior and posterior)
-produces hormones which stimulate other glands to release hormones

Question 5

What is an example of a function of the anterior pituitary gland

Answer 5

-produces ACTH as a response to stress which stimulates adrenal gland to produce cortisol

Question 6

What is an example of a function of the posterior pituitary gland

Answer 6

-releases oxytocin which stimulates contraction of uterus in childbirth

Question 7

What is the adrenal gland and its function

Answer 7

-sits at the top of kidneys and made up of two distinct parts - cortex(necessary for life) and medulla (not necessary for life)
Cortex - produces cortisol which regulates cardio vascular functions
Medulla - adrenaline and noradrenaline for fight or flight

Question 8

What are the ovaries and what is their function

Answer 8

-produce oestrogen and progesterone
-progesterone associated with heightened sensitivity to social cues that indicate presence of social opportunities and threat significant in pregnancy

Question 9

What are the testes and what is their function

Answer 9

-produce testosterone which causes development of male characteristics e.g sex drive, aggression and appearance
-women have a minimum amount of