The Fucntion Of The Endocrine System Flashcards
What is the endocrine system?
Collection of glands around the body that regulate bodily functions, growth and psychological factors. Releases hormones into the blood stream
What is a gland?
An organ in the body that synthesises substances such as hormones
What are hormones?
Chemical substances produced in large quantities but disappear quickly that circulate in the bloodstream and only affects target organs
What is the difference between neurotransmitters hormones?
Hormones are released straight through the bloodstream and neurotransmitters are released through neurons
What is the hypothalamus?
The gland connected to the pituitary gland, responsible for stimulating and controlling the release of hormones from the pituitary gland
What is the pituitary gland?
The ‘master gland’, this glands hormones stimulates and controls the release of other glands hormones
What is the pituitary gland’s main hormone and what is its function?
ACTH is stimulated is when the body under stress which then stimulates the adrenal cortex and releases cortisol
What are the adrenal glands?
The adrenal medulla and adrenal cortex
What is the adrenal glands main hormone and its function?
AM = releases adrenaline and noradrenaline - key role is fight or flight
AC = releases cortisol - stimulates thee release of glucose
What are the testes?
The gland responsible for male growth system and the release of androgens
What is the main hormone of the testes and what is its function?
Testosterone which is responsible for the regulation of male characteristics and muscle growth
What are the ovaries?
The glands responsible for the regulation of the female reproductive system
What is the main hormone of the ovaries and what is its function?
Oestrogen which is responsible for the regulation of the menstrual cycle and pregnancy
