The Endocrine system

Question 1

What is the Endocrine systems purpose?

Answer 1

• Communicatory system
• Helps to regulate activity of cells and organs
• Works alongside NS to control vital functions
• Uses chemical signals to send messages

Question 2

What is the role of Hormones and Glands in the ES?

Answer 2

• Glands are organs that produce hormones
• Hormones act as chemical messengers within the body telling it to perform specific functions
• Hormones travel through bloodstream
• Hormones do not cause behaviour but they influence it

Question 3

List all glands and their specified roles within the body?

Answer 3

Hypothalamus: controls release of 8 major hormones by the pituitary gland
Pituitary: regulates the functions of other endocrine glands
Thyroid: plays a major role in metabolism, growth and maturation
Adrenals: responsible for release of adrenaline causing ‘fight or flight’ response
Pancreas: produces insulin and glucose to maintain BG levels
Ovaries: produces oestrogen and progesterone
Testes: produces testosterone and sperm

Question 4

What is the sequence of a ‘fight or flight’ response?

Answer 4

1. Amygdala senses danger, sends signal to hypothalamus
2. Hypothalamus activates Pituitary gland
3. Activates Sympathetic NS
4. Sends signal to Adrenal gland
5. Adrenal gland releases adrenaline
6. Activates Fight or Flight response
7. Parasympathetic is activated