the function of the endocrine system (glands and hormones) Flashcards
the endocrine system
one of the bodys information systems that instructs glands to release hormones directly into the blood stream
- which are carried towards target cells in the body
gland
an organ that synthesises substances such as hormones
hormones
chemical substances that circulate in the bloodstream but only effect target organs by binding to receptor sites
when enough receptor sites are stimulated by a hormone this brings about
a physiological response
outline how hormones bring about a response
- endocrine system secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream in response to a signal from the brain
- hormones travel to target cells and stimulate receptors on the surface of these cells
- the presence of a hormone causes a physiological reaction in the cell which alters its activity
the pituitary gland is also known as
the master gland
the pituitary gland secretes
hormones that influence the release of hormones from other glands eg ACTH regulating the endocrine system
the adrenal gland secretes
adrenaline used for the fight or flight response
testes secrete
testosterone (male sex hormones)
the ovaries secrete
oestrogen and progesterone (female sex hormones)
the thyroid gland secretes
thyroxine which increases heart rate and metabolic rate
the pineal gland secretes
melatonin which helps regulate the sleep wake cycle
the pancreas secretes
insulin and glucagon which help control blood glucose levels
