The Endocrine System Flashcards
The Endocrine System - Glands
The endocrine system works alongside the nervous system. It is a network of glands across the body that secrete chemical messages called hormones. Instead of using nerves (sensory and motor neurons) to transmit information, this system uses blood vessels. Different hormones produce different effects (behaviours).
Each gland produces a different hormone. The word ‘hormone’ comes from the Greek work ‘hormao’ meaning ‘excite’, as hormones excite (stimulate) a particular part of the body.
What is the hypothalamus connected to?
The hypothalamus is connected to the pituitary gland.
What is the hypothalamus responsible for?
The hypothalamus is responsible for stimulating or controlling the release of hormones from the pituitary gland.
Therefore, the hypothalamus is the control system which regulates the endocrine system.
What is the pituitary gland sometimes called?
The pituitary gland is sometimes known as the ‘master gland’.
Why is the pituitary gland sometimes called this?
It is called this because the hormones released by the pituitary gland control and stimulate the release of hormones from other glands in the endocrine system.
What is the pituitary gland divided into?
The pituitary gland is divided into the anterior (front) and posterior (rear) lobes, which release different hormones.
What is a hormone released from the posterior lobe?
A key hormone released from the posterior lobe is oxytocin (often referred to as the ‘love hormone’) which is responsible for uterus contractions during childbirth.
What is a hormone released from the anterior lobe?
A key hormone released from the anterior lobe is adrenocortical trophic hormone (ACTH) which stimulates the adrenal cortex and the release of cortisol, during the stress response.
What is the main hormone released from the pineal gland?
The main hormone released from the pineal gland is melatonin, which is responsible for important biological rhythms, including the sleep-wake cycle.
What is the main hormone released from the thyroid gland?
The thyroid gland releases thyroxine which is responsible for regulating metabolism. People who have a fast metabolism typically struggle to put on weight, as metabolism is involves in the chemical process of converting food into energy.
What is the adrenal gland divided into?
The adrenal gland is divided into the adrenal medulla and the adrenal cortex.
What is the adrenal medulla responsible for?
The adrenal medulla is responsible for releasing adrenalin and noradrenaline, which play a key role in the fight or flight response.
What is the adrenal cortex responsible for?
The adrenal cortex releases cortisol, which stimulates the release of glucose to provide the body with energy while suppressing the immune system.
What is the main hormone released from the testes?
The testes release androgens, which induce the main hormone testosterone. Testosterone is responsible for the development of male sex characteristics during puberty which also promote muscle growth.
What is the main hormone released from the ovaries?
The ovaries release oestrogen which controls the regulation of the female reproductive system, including the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
