4.5.3.1 Human Endocrine System

What does the human endocrine system do?

Sends hormones around the body

What is the human endocrine system made up of?

Glands which secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream

What glands are in the endocrine system?

The pituitary gland, pancreas, thyroid, adrenal gland, ovary and testes

What does the pituitary gland do?

Secretes hormones into the blood to either have an effect on the body or act on other glands to stimulate them to produce other hormones

What does the pancreas do?

Secrete insulin and control blood glucose levels

What does the thyroid do?

Secrete thyroxine which controls and regulates metabolic rate, heart rate and temperature

What does the adrenal gland do?

Secrete adrenaline and is involved in the ‘fight of flight’ response, which is the body’s response to stress situations

What does the ovaries do?

Secretes oestrogen and is involved in the menstrual cycle and the development of female secondary sexual characteristics

What does the testes do?

Secretes testosterone and is involved in the production of sperm and the development of male secondary sexual characteristics

Where does the blood transport these hormones to?

A target organ or tissue where it has an effect