Lesson 4 - The function of the endocrine system

Question 1

The pituitary gland (master gland)

Answer 1

It is situated in the brain and release hormones from other glands which regulate the endocrine system
• The hypothalamus (in the brain) produces a hormone called, “Releasing hormone” which then travels to the pituitary gland
• The pituitary gland has two divisions – the anterior and posterior

Question 2

What 2 things are the pituitary gland responsible for?

Answer 2

1. It is responsible for releasing the hormone called ACTH which is responsible for preparing the body for the fight/flight response which occurs when someone is stressed
   • The anterior pituitary gland releases a stimulating hormone called ACTH into the blood stream and this travels to the target gland e.g. the adrenal glands situated near the kidneys
2. The pituitary gland is also responsible for releasing Luteinizing Hormone which is a hormone produced by the gonadotropic cells. In females, an acute rise of LH triggers ovulation and development of the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum is what is left of the follicle after a woman ovulates
   • In males, where LH had also been called interstitial cell–stimulating hormone (ICSH) it stimulates cell production of testosterone

Question 3

Adrenal cortex

Answer 3

Outer section of the adrenal glands which produces hormones needed for life

Question 4

Cortisol and the adrenal cortex:

Answer 4

• The adrenal cortex produces the hormone cortisol which is produced in high amounts when someone is stressed, and it can be measured in the urine. Cortisol is also responsible for the cardiovascular system, for instance it will increase blood pressure and cause blood vessels to contract.

Question 5

Adrenaline:

Answer 5

Increases heart rate
Dilated pupils
Stops digestion
Fight/flight response

Question 6

Noradrenaline:

Answer 6

Constricts blood vessels and blood pressure increases