✓ The Endocrine System (AO1) Flashcards
What is the Endocrine System?
contains 9 major glands and organs that produce, store, and secrete hormones
+
provides a chemical system of communication via the bloodstream
Endocrine System vs. Nervous System?
work together to control vital functions in the body
endocrine acts more slowly than nervous but has more widespread and powerful effects
What is a gland?
produce hormones, which are secreted into the bloodstream and affect any cell in the body that has a receptor for that particular hormone
What are the 9 major glands/organs?
hypothalamus
pituitary gland
pineal gland
thyroid
parathyroid
thymus
ovaries/testes
pancreas
adrenal gland
Location/Function/Hormones of hypothalamus?
in the centre of the brain
maintains the body’s homeostasis - regulates body temp, heart rate, blood pressure
FSH, oxytocin, growth-releasing hormone
Location/Function/Hormones of pituitary gland?
in the centre of the brain (size of a pea)
‘master gland’ - directs much hormone activity
FSH, growth hormone, prolactin
Location/Function/Hormones of pineal gland?
in the centre of the brain (pine cone shape)
controls circadian rhythms
melatonin
Location/Function/Hormones of thyroid?
front of the windpipe (butterfly shape)
regulates energy and metabolism
T3, T4, calcitonin
Location/Function/Hormones of parathyroid?
next to thyroid (size of a pea)
secretes hormones necessary for calcium absorption
parathyroid hormone (PTH)
Location/Function/Hormones of thymus?
between sternum and lungs
controls production of T cells, aids immune system functioning
thymosin
Location/Function/Hormones of ovaries/testes?
either side of the womb/ in the scrotum
maintains the health of the female/male reproductive system, primary reproductive organs
oestrogen, progesterone/ testosterone
Location/Function/Hormones of pancreas?
in the abdomen (between stomach & spine)
aids digestion, regulates blood sugar levels
insulin, glucagon, gastrin
Location/Function/Hormones of adrenal gland?
above the kidney (triangular shape)
releases hormones that are essential for survival/ times of stress
adrenaline, cortisol
