L4 - Endocrine System

Question 1

What is the endocrine system?

Answer 1

• provides a chemical system of communication in the body via blood stream
• produce and secrete hormones into bloodstream for bodily functions
• major glands are pituitary gland + adrenal gland.

Question 2

What are target cells?

Answer 2

• cells the hormone actually affects
• they respond as they have the correct receptors for the hormone
• when enough receptor sites are stimulated, there is a reaction

Question 3

Location and function of pituitary gland?

Answer 3

• Located in Brain
• Produces hormones to influence the release of other hormones
• Controlled by Hypothalamus

Question 4

How does the hypothalamus communicate with the pituitary gland?

Answer 4

• H knows about basic functions of body
• H sends a signal to the pituitary gland by a releasing hormone
• Causing the PG to send a stimulating hormone into the bloodstream to tel other target gland to release the hormone
• As hormone rises, the hypothalamus stops producing the releasing hormone, and PG stops producing stimulating hormone.

Question 5

What is the pituitary gland split into?

Answer 5

• Anterior PG: releases hormone ACTH, regulates cortisol

- Posterior PG: releases oxytocin which is needed for mother/child bonding

Question 6

What are the adrenal glands made of?

Answer 6

Adrenal Cortex

• Outer section
• Produces cortisol during long term stress
• Responsible for cardiovascular system, increases by and causes be to constrict

Adrenal Medulla

• Inner section
• Produces Adrenaline
• Activated when someone is suddenly stressed
• Increases heart rate, dilates pupils and stops digestion