The Endocrine System

what is the endocrine system?

network of glands across the body that secretes chemical messengers called hormones to control vital physiological processes in the body and influence behaviour

function of the endocrine system

- secrete hormones that maintain vital bodily processes, e.g. metabolism

- co-ordinate with the nervous system via the hypothalamus to maintain normal bodily functioning

- control timing of hormonal activity

how are hormones transported around the body

blood vessels to transport hormones around the body to a specific target cell

what are glands

organs that synthesise and release hormones

what are hormones

chemical messengers that circulate in the blood stream and bind to target sites throughout the body

what are the two parts of the pituitary gland

anterior pituitary and posterior pituitary

what hormones are released by the pituitary gland

anterior- ACTH as a response to stress, stimulating adrenal glands to release cortisol

posterior- Oxytocin which stimulates contraction of uterus in birth

structure of adrenal glands

outer part- adrenal cortex

inner part- adrenal medulla

function of adrenal cortex

secrete cortisol- suppresses immune system but stops you feeling pain

stress hormone

function of adrenal medulla

releases adrenaline and noradrenaline- prepares body for flight or fight

thyroid gland

releases thyroxin controls metabolism helps to digest food

pineal gland

releases melatonin when dark, makes us sleepy