Endocrine system Flashcards
What is the endocrine system
Network of glands that secrete chemical messages called hormones into the blood stream
Slow process - manages slow things e.g. cell growth
Glands - Organ that synthesis substances such as hormones
Substances e.g. hormones affect cells with complimentary receptors
Works together with the nervous system
Describe major functions of the hypothalamus
Maintain homeostasis
Plays a part in hunger, sleep cycles, emotion etc
How does the hypothalamus and pituitary gland work together
Pituitary gland - Master gland as it produces hormones and controls release of hormones from all other glands
Signal is sent from hypothalamus to pituitary gland in the form of a hormone causing the pituitary gland to release a stimulating hormone into bloodstream. This hormone then causes target gland to secrete hormone.
Describe the hormones released from each gland and it’s function
Pituitary gland - Anterior section - ACTH - Stimulates adrenal cortex/release of cortisol during stress response. Posterior section - Oxytocin - Responsible for uterus contractions during childbirth.
Pineal gland - Melatonin - Regulates sleep/wake cycle
Thyroid gland - Thyroxine - Regulates metabolism
Thymus gland - Thymosin - Stimulates T cell development
Pancreas gland - Insulin - Controls blood sugar levels
Adrenal gland separated into adrenal medulla and adrenal cortex. Adrenal medulla - Adrenaline - Fight or Flight and Adrenal cortex - Cortisol - Stimulates response of glucose to provide energy
Ovary gland - Oestrogen - Regulates female reproductive system
Testes - Testosterone - Development of male characteristics during puberty.
How do the ANS and endocrine system work together
During fight or flight
Stressful event e.g.exams occur
Hypothalamus triggers sympathetic in ANS
ANS changes from parasympathetic to sympathetic
Adrenal gland releases adrenaline into bloodstream
Adrenaline triggers physiological change for fight or flight e.g. increased heart rate
Once event passes, ANS switches back to parasympathetic state and rest/digest occurs
