Lesson 4 - Endocrine System

Question 1

Process

Answer 1

• Endocrine glands release hormones into the bloodstream
• Required to regulate many bodily functions
• Major glands of the endocrine system include the pituitary gland and the adrenal gland
• Hormones are responded to by cells known as target cells as they have receptors for the hormones

Question 2

Pituitary Gland

Answer 2

• Located in the brain
• Produces hormones whose primary function is to influence the release of other hormones in the body
• Controlled by the hypothalamus

Question 3

Divisions of the Pituitary Gland

Answer 3

• Anterior pituitary gland - Releases the hormone called ACTH which regulates levels of hormone cortisol
• Posterior pituitary gland - Responsible for releasing the hormone oxytocin which is crucial for infant/mother bonding

Question 4

Hypothalamus

Answer 4

• Receives information from many sources about the basic functions of the body
• Sends a signal to the pituitary gland in the form of a releasing hormone
• Causes the pituitary gland to send a stimulating hormone into the bloodstream to the target gland to release its hormone
• As levels of this hormone rise the hypothalamus shuts down production of the releasing hormone and the pituitary gland shuts down secretion of the stimulating hormone

Question 5

Adrenal Cortex

Answer 5

• Outer section of the adrenal gland
• Produces cortisol which is produced in high moments when someone is experiencing chronic stress
• Cortisol is also responsible for cardiovascular system, will increase blood pressure and causes blood vessels to constrict

Question 6

Adrenal Medulla

Answer 6

• Inner section of the adrenal glands
• Produces adrenaline - hormone for fight or flight response
• Activated when someone is acutely stressed
• Increases heart rate, dilates pupils and stops digestion