Nervous and Endocrine Systems Flashcards
Cerebrum
The largest part of the brain, responsible for higher brain functions like thought, memory, movement, and sensation.
Cerebellum
A part of the brain located at the back of the head, responsible for coordinating voluntary movements, balance, and muscle tone.
Pons
A part of the brainstem that connects the cerebrum with the cerebellum and helps regulate breathing and sleep.
Medulla Oblongata
The lower part of the brainstem that controls vital functions like heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure.
Peripheral nervous system
The network of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord that connects the central nervous system (CNS) to the limbs and organs.
Pituitary
A small gland located at the base of the brain, often called the “master gland,” that controls other endocrine glands and regulates growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
Thyroid
A butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones that regulate metabolism, energy, and growth.
Parathyroid
Four small glands located behind the thyroid that produce a hormone that regulates calcium levels in the blood.
Thymus
A gland located behind the sternum that is involved in the development of the immune system, especially during childhood.
Adrenal gland
A pair of glands located on top of the kidneys that produce hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which help regulate stress and metabolism.
Pancreas
A gland located behind the stomach that produces insulin and digestive enzymes, helping to regulate blood sugar and aid digestion.
Pineal gland
A small gland located in the brain that produces the hormone melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles.
Ovaries
Female reproductive organs that produce eggs (ova) and hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
Testes
Male reproductive organs that produce sperm and the hormone testosterone, which regulates male reproductive functions and secondary sex characteristics.
