CH9 : Endocrine System

What does the Endocrine System do?

Regulates body activity by release of hormones into blood by endocrine glands

Pituitary gland

Found below hypothalamus in brain & is known as the “master gland” because it controls activity of other glans (gonads, thyroid, adrenal)

Pancreas

Found between stomach & small intestines, controls blood glucose levels. Insulin is released to lower blood glucose and glucagon is released to raise blood glucose levels

Thyroid gland

Found in the base of the throat/neck & controls metabolism by releasing thyroid hormones

Pineal gland

Found in epithalamus of brain & releases melatonin to control sleep cycle

Adrenal medulla

Releases epinephrine & norepinephrine which controls flight or flight response to raise heart rate, blood pressure, & glucose levels

Gonads

The ovaries in females & tested in males. Ovaries release estrogen & progresterone. Tested release testosterone