The function of the endocrine system Flashcards
What is the function of the endocrine system?
The endocrine system comprises a series of glands, which release chemicals (hormones) throughout the body via the blood and other bodily fluids in order to regulate the activity of cells or organs in the body, affecting various bodily functions.
Glands will release the required amount of a specific hormone to promote growth/metabolism/reproduction.
Each gland produces different hormones, which regulate the activity of specific organs and tissues in the body.
The endocrine system provides a chemical system of communication via the blood stream, as hormones are carried to target sites throughout the body – a given hormone usually affects only a limited number of cells, known as target cells. Target cells respond to a particular hormone because they have receptors for that hormone.
what is the pituitary gland
The Pituitary gland is the ‘master gland’. It produces hormones that regulate the release of hormones from many of the other endocrine glands e.g. it secretes ACTH, which stimulates the production of cortisol from the adrenal gland.
what is the thyroid gland
produces thyroxine, which regulates metabolism
what is the parathyroid glands
these four glands release parathyroid hormones, which regulate the level of calcium in the blood.
what are the adrenal galnds
release adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol, which help the body deal with stress.
what is the pancreases
produces insulin and glucagon, which regulate the level of glucose in the blood.
what are the ovaries
produce oestrogen and progesterone. Oestrogen is required for the development of secondary sex characteristics and for the development of eggs. Progesterone prepares the uterus for a fertilised egg.
what are the testes
produce testosterone, which is responsible for sperm production and the development of male secondary sex characteristics e.g. growth of facial hair, deepening of voice.
