5.3.1 Human Endocrine System

What are the two communication systems in the human body?

The nervous system and the endocrine system.

What does the endocrine system do?

It uses hormones (chemical messengers) carried in the blood to target organs or tissues to produce a response.

How does the endocrine system compare to the nervous system?

It is slower than the nervous system but its effects last longer.

What is the pituitary gland known as and why?

It is called the master gland because it secretes hormones that affect the body directly or stimulate other glands to release hormones.

What does the pancreas secrete and what does it control?

It secretes insulin and controls blood glucose levels.

What does the thyroid secrete and what does it control?

It secretes thyroxine and controls metabolic rate, heart rate and temperature.

What does the adrenal gland secrete and what is its role?

It secretes adrenaline, which is involved in the 'fight or flight' response to stress.

What hormone do the ovaries secrete and what is its role?

They secrete oestrogen, which controls the menstrual cycle and the development of female secondary sexual characteristics.

What hormone do the testes secrete and what is its role?

They secrete testosterone, which is involved in sperm production and the development of male secondary sexual characteristics.