The Endocrine System

Consists of a series of glands

All glands secrete hormones into the blood

--> spread through the body via the blood stream

Tissues have receptors specific to the hormones

Pituitary gland (master gland)

Thyroid gland: produces thyroxine

--> regulates rate of metabolism as well as growth and development

Adrenal Gland: releases adrenaline

Pancreas: produces insulin

--> regulates blood glucose concentration

Testes (males): produce testosterone and sperm

Ovaries (females): produce progesterone and oestrogen

Endocrine system works closely together with the nervous system

Hormones: chemicals released by glands or tissues

Glands secrete hormones directly into the blood

Each hormone only interacts with specific receptors on some cells to cause a specific response

Circulating hormones: travel around the body in the blood

Local hormones: act on neighbouring cells without entering the bloodstream