The Endocrine System- Glands And Hormones Flashcards
(7 cards)
What are the 6 AO1 points you must know for the endocrine system glands and hormones?
- The role of the endocrine system
-how hormones work
-glands and hormones
-adrenaline and the fight or flight response
-sex hormones and the reproductive glands
-the pancreas and insulin
What is the endocrine system and what is its function?
The endocrine system is one of the body’s major information systems. It instructs glands to release hormones directly into the bloodstream, which are then carried to target organs to regulate bodily functions.
How does the endocrine system interact with the nervous system?
The endocrine system works alongside the nervous system to control vital functions. It is slower than the nervous system but has longer-lasting and widespread effects.
What are hormones and how do they function?
Hormones are chemical substances that travel in the bloodstream and affect only target organs that have specific receptors. They are produced in large quantities but are broken down quickly.
What is the role of the pituitary gland?
The pituitary gland is located in the brain and is often called the “master gland” because it controls the release of hormones from all other endocrine glands in the body.
What is the fight or flight response and what hormone is involved?
The fight or flight response is a physiological reaction to stress that prepares the body to fight or flee. It involves the release of adrenaline from the adrenal glands, which increases heart rate, dilates airways, and contracts blood vessels.
What are some other key glands and their hormones?
• Pineal gland: melatonin (regulates sleep/wake cycle)
• Thyroid gland: thyroxine (regulates metabolism)
• Testes: testosterone (develops male sex characteristics)
• Ovaries: oestrogen (regulates menstrual cycle)
• Pancreas: insulin (regulates blood sugar)
