Lesson 4 - Endocrine System

Question 1

Endocrine System

Answer 1

Provides chemical system of communication in body via blood streams
Endocrine glands produce and secrete hormones into the bloodstream which are required to regulate bodily functions
Each gland produces different hormones which regulate activity of organs/tissues in the body

Question 2

Endocrine System
Target Cells

Answer 2

Hormones come into contact with most cells but only affect a limited number => target cells
Target cells respond to particular hormones because of receptors they have
When enough receptor sites are stimulated for that hormone, a physiological reaction occurs

Question 3

Pituitary Gland

Answer 3

Located in brain
Produces hormones whose primary function is to influence release of other hormones from other glands
Controlled by hypothalamus

Question 4

Pituitary Gland
Hypothalamus

Answer 4

Receives information from many sources
Sends signals to pituitary gland in the form of a releasing hormone
Causes pituitary gland to releases its hormones
As levels of this hormone rise, hypothalamus shuts down production of the releasing hormone and pituitary gland shuts down secretion of the stimulating hormone

Question 5

Pituitary Gland Divisions

Answer 5

The Anterior Pituitary Gland
=> Releases hormone called ACTH which regulates levels of the hormone cortisol

The Posterior Pituitary Gland
=> Responsible for releasing hormone oxytocin which is crucial for infant/mother bonding

Question 6

Adrenal Glands

Answer 6

Two adrenal glands situated on top of the kidneys
Made up of two distinct parts
Adrenal Cortex and Adrenal Medulla

Question 7

Adrenal Glands
Adrenal Cortex

Answer 7

Outer section of adrenal gland
Produces hormone cortisol which is produced in high amounts when someone is experiencing chronic stress
Cortisol is also responsible for the cardiovascular system
E.g. increases blood pressure and caused blood vessels to constrict

Question 8

Adrenal Gland
Adrenal Medulla

Answer 8

Inner section of adrenal gland
Produces adrenal, hormone which is needed for fight or flight response that is activated when someone is acutely stressed
Adrenaline increases heart rate, dilates pupils and stops digestion

Question 9

Glands Diagram

Answer 9