The Endocrine System

• The hypothalamus is connected to the pituitary gland and is responsible for stimulating or controlling the release of hormones from the pituitary gland.
• The hypothalamus is the control system which regulates the endocrine system.
• Hormones are large chemicals released from glands into the bloodstream that travel to specific organs for functioning.
• Hormones are chemicals produced in the endocrine system.
• The pituitary gland is sometimes known as the master gland because the hormones released by the pituitary gland control and stimulate the release of hormones from other glands in the endocrine system.
• The main hormone released from the pineal gland is melatonin, which is responsible for important biological rhythms, including the sleep-wake cycle.
• Adrenocortical trophic hormone (ACTH) stimulates the adrenal cortex and the release of cortisol, during the stress response.
• The thyroid gland releases thyroxine which is responsible for regulating metabolism.
• The adrenal gland is divided into two parts, the adrenal medulla and the adrenal cortex. The adrenal medulla is responsible for releasing adrenaline and noradrenaline, which play a key role in the fight or flight response.
• The adrenal cortex releases cortisol, which stimulates the release of glucose to provide the body with energy while suppressing the immune system.
• Males and females have different sex organs, and in males the testes release androgens, which include the main hormone testosterone.
• In females, the ovaries release oestrogen which controls the regulation of the female reproductive system, including the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
• The endocrine system works alongside the nervous system. It is a network of glands across the body that secrete chemical messages called hormones.
• Instead of using nerves (sensory and motor neurons) to transmit information, the endocrine system uses blood vessels.
• Each gland produces a different hormone, targeted for a specific function.
• Hormones can disappear from the bloodstream quickly.
• A gland is an organ in the body that synthesises substances such as hormones.
• Hormonal responses can be triggered by signals in the brain.
• Activation of the sympathetic nervous system can increase the production of hormones such as adrenaline.
• Hormones cause physiological changes in the body, which can impact our thoughts, feelings and behaviour.
• Endocrine system.