The Endocrine System Flashcards
What is the function of the adrenal gland?
An important part of the fight or flight response as it facilitates the release of adrenaline.
What is the function of the testes?
They facilitate the release of testosterone
What’s the function of the ovaries?
They facilitate the release of oestrogen and progesterone.
Describe the fight-or-flight process
- The hypothalamus recognises that there is a threat and sends a message to…
- The adrenal gland triggers the release of…
- Adrenaline to the endocrine system and noradrenaline in the brain which then prompts physical changes.
What physical changes are caused by adrenaline?
Increased heart rate- speeds up blood flow to vital organs to improve the spread of adrenaline.
Muscle tension- to improve reaction time.
Faster breathing rate- increase oxygen intake.
Pupil dilation- improves vision.
Production of sweat- to facilitate temperature.
Reduce digestive and immune functions- to save energy and prioritise functions such as running.
What’s the function of the pituitary gland?
Some of the hormones released are important for regulating the endocrine system.
What research is there into the hormone oxytocin
Kosfeld et al (2005) found that high levels of oxytocin encourages strong bonding between couples, as well as its importance for reproductive behaviour.
Feldman et al (2007) found this is also a strong case for mother/child bonding.
What’s the endocrine system?
The collection of glands that are used to secrete hormones for particular bodily processes
What happens in synaptic transmission?
Message sent down the AXON, triggering the release of NEUROTRANSMITTERS from the SYNAPTIC VESICLES. they leave the PRESYNAPTIC NERVE TERMINAL. And cross the SYNAPSE via DIFFUSION. They’re then taken up by the RECEPTORS at the DENDRITE.
What’s excitation
When a neurotransmitter increases the positive charge of the post synaptic neuron to increase the likely hood that the neuron will fire and pass on the impulse.
What’s inhibition
When a neurotransmitter makes the postsynaptic neuron more negatively charged, which decreases the likely hood that the neuron will fire and send the impulse. E.g. Serotonin.
