The Endocrine and Immune Systems Flashcards
What is the endocrine system?
The system of hormone-secreting glands distributed throughout the body
What are hormones?
Chemical messengers, secreted from the glands into the bloodstream
Why would the endocrine system be used over the nervous system?
When a more long-lasting response is required
What are the adrenal glands?
Twin structures that serve as hormone factories, producing and secreting around 50 different hormones
What kind of hormones do the adrenal glands produce?
Stress hormones
What is the immune system?
A complex network of organs, cells and proteins that defends the body against infection
What two components are within the immune system?
Antigens
Antibodies
What are antigens?
Foreign substances that trigger a biochemical response from the immune system
What are antibodies?
Biochemical weapons needed to destroy antigens
How can psychosocial factors influence immune system functioning?
The immune system functions best when an individual possesses positive emotions and is mentally healthy
Negative emotions and poor mental health can impair the functioning of the immune system
What is the relationship between the endocrine, nervous and immune systems?
They are all in constant communication with each other
