VII. The Endocrine System
The endocrine system, made up of hormone-secreting glands, also affects communication inside the body. Hormones are chemicals that help to regulate bodily functions. The glands produce hormones and dump them into the bloodstream, through which the hormones travel to various parts of the body. Hormones act more slowly than neurotransmitters, but their effects tend to be longer lasting. The pituitary gland, which lies close to the hypothalamus of the brain, is often called the master gland of the endocrine system. When stimulated by the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland releases various hormones that control other glands in the body. The chart below summarizes the better known hormones along with some of their functions. Hormone Produced by Involved regulating Thyroxine Thyroid gland Metabolic rate Insulin Pancreas Level of blood sugar Melatonin Pineal gland Biological rhythms, sleep Cortisol, Norepinephrine, Epinephrine, Adrenaline Adrenal glands Bodily functions during stressful and emotional states Androgens Testes, (ovaries, Male secondary sex characteristics adrenal glands sexual arousal in males and females to a lesser degree) Estrogens Ovaries, (testes, Breast development and menarche adrenal glands in females. to a lesser degree) Progesterone Ovaries (and testes Preparation of uterus for and adrenal glands implantation of fertilized egg to a lesser extent) |
Vocabulary to Learn Today
Endocrine System Hormones Pituitary Gland |
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