Endocrine System-bio Flashcards
(30 cards)
What is the endocrine system?
One of the body’s major information systems that instructs glands to release hormones directly into the bloodstream.
What are hormones carried towards?
Target organs in the body.
What do these hormones impact?
Any cell in the body that has a receptor for that hormone.
What is the response of these hormones?
They lead to many diverse and powerful responses.
What does the endocrine system work alongside?
The nervous system.
How does the speed of the endocrine system compare to the nervous system?
It works slower than the nervous system but has very powerful effects.
What is the Hypothalamus?
The central control centre that maintains homeostasis.
What is the role of the Pituitary gland?
It is known as the ‘master gland’ because it controls the release of hormones from all other glands in the body.
What hormone does the Pineal gland release?
Melatonin
Melatonin is responsible for important biological rhythms, including the sleep/wake cycle.
What is the function of the Thyroid gland?
It regulates metabolism, growth, and development in the body.
What hormones do the Testes produce?
Testosterone
Testosterone is responsible for the development of male sex characteristics during puberty and promotes muscle growth.
What hormones do the Ovaries produce?
Oestrogen
Oestrogen controls the regulation of the female reproductive system, including the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
What is the role of the Adrenal gland?
It is responsible for the fight or flight response, with adrenaline stimulating heart rate and other impacts.
What hormone does the Pancreas release?
Insulin
Insulin allows the body to use glucose from carbohydrates for energy or to store glucose for future use, helping to keep blood sugar levels stable.
What is a gland?
A gland is an organ in the body that makes hormones.
What is a hormone?
A hormone is a chemical substance that circulates in the bloodstream and impacts target organs.
How are hormones produced?
Hormones are produced in large quantities but quickly disappear.
Are hormones powerful?
Hormones are not very powerful.
What does the hypothalamus recognize?
The hypothalamus recognizes that there is a threat in the environment.
What does the ANS activate?
The ANS activates the Sympathetic Nervous System.
What does the Sympathetic Nervous System tell the pituitary gland to release?
It tells the pituitary gland to release ACTH.
What does ACTH do?
ACTH sends a message to the adrenal gland.
What does the adrenal gland release in response to ACTH?
The adrenal gland responds by releasing adrenaline.
How does adrenaline affect the body?
Adrenaline travels through the bloodstream and targets organs in the body that have adrenaline receptors.
