Chapter 9: Structures and Functions of Endocrine System Flashcards
What is the primary function of the Endocrine System?
To produce hormones that work together to maintain homeostasis.
What are Hormones?
Chemicals messengers secreted by endocrine glands that regulate nearly all the processes in the body.
What are the process of Hormones?
Growth, developiemt, hunger, thirst, emotions, mood, sexuality, pregnancy, childbirth, sleep, response to stress.
What is the Pituitary gland?
A small, pea-sized located at the base of the brain.
What is the master gland?
Pituitary gland.
What is the primary function of the Pituitary Gland (master gland)?
To secure hormones that control the activity of other endocrine glands.
The production of the Pituitary hormones is under the control of?
The hypothalamus of the brain.
What does the Hypothalamus senses?
The levels of circulating hormones to be released or reduced.
What does the levels of circulating hormones to be released of reduced do?
Creates a system of checks and balances to maintain an appropriate blood level of each hormone.
What is the Thyoid?
A butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck.
What is the Thyroid responsible for?
Metabolism.
What does the Thyroid hormones help control?
Body temperature, blood pressure and heart rate.
Where are the four Parathyroid Glands?
Embedded on the back surface of the thyroid gland.
What is the function of the four Parathyroid Glands?
Regulate the calcium content of the blood.
Why are calcium levels so important?
For the smooth functioning of the muscular and nervous systems.
Where is the Thymus Gland located?
In the thoracic cavity, slightly above the heart.
The Thymus secrets a hormone that helps what?
Develop the body’s immune system before birth and in childhood.
How many Adrenal Glands does each kidney has on top?
One.
What is one of the primary functions of the Adrenal glands?
To control electrolyte levels in the body.
Other hormones released by the Adrenal glands play an important role in?
The “fight or flight response” in stressful situations.
What is the Pineal Gland?
A very small gland located in the central portion of the brain.
How does Pineal Gland manages the sleep cycle?
By releasing melatonin, a hormone that helps initiate and maintain sleep.
Where is the Pancreas located?
Behind the stomach and is part of the Digestive and Endocrine systems.
What is the endocrine function of the pancreas?
To control blood glucose levels throughout the body by secreting insulin in response to elevated levels of glucose in bloodstream.
