The endocrine system

What is the endocrine system and what’s it’s function?

• Works alongside the nervous system to control vital functions in the body

• It’s a network of glands that produce hormones

• It’s function is to secrete the hormones that regulate body functions

• Different blood vessels transport different hormones and each hormone has a different effect

Why is the endrocrine system slower than the NS?

• The system travels through blood as opposed to neurons

• Creates more widespread and long lasting effects

What is the control system that regulates the endocrine system and why?

• The hypothalamus as its connected to the pituitary gland and responsible for stimulating the release of hormones from it

What is the pituitary gland known as and why?

• The master gland because hormones released by the pituitary glanf stimulate the release of hormones from other glands in the endocrine system

What are the 2 part of the pituitary gland?

1. Anterior (front)

2. Posterior (rear)

Each release different hormones

What is a key hormone released by the posterior lobe and what does it do?

• Oxytocin

• Responsible for uterus contractions during childbirth and other social behaviours

What is a key hormone released by the anterior lobe and what does it do?

• Adrenocorticotrophic hormone

• Stimulates the adrenal cortex to release cortisol in the stress response

What are the 5 main glands

• Testes

• Ovaries

• Adrenal gland

• Pineal gland

• Thyroid gland

What is the role of the testes?

• Male reproductive glands that produce testosterone

• Causes: deepening of the voice, growth of facial hair, sperm production etc

What is the role of the ovaries?

• Form part of the female reproductive system and produces eggs, oestrogen and progesterone

• Prepares the uterus for pregnancy

What is the role of the adrenal gland?

• Divided into the adrenal medulla and the adrenal cortex

• Adrenal medulla is responsible for releasing adrenaline and noradrenaline

• Adrenal cortex reeases cortisol which stimulates the release of glucose and suppresses the immune system

What is the role of the pineal gland?

• Produces melatonin which is responsible for important biological rhythms eg the sleep-wake cycle

What is the role of the thyroid gland?

• Releases thyroxine which regulates the metabolism