The Endocrine System

• What is the Endocrine System?


  - Network of glands throughout body that manufacture and secrete hormones

  - Uses blood system to deliver hormones to target sites in body
• What are Hormones?


  - Chemical messengers that circulate bloodstream and are carried to target sites
• What is the role of the Pituitary Gland (PG)?

  - Master gland, primary role is to influence the release of hormones from other glands therefore regulating most bodily functions
• What is the role of the Adrenal Glands?


  - Sit on top of kidneys, each one made of the adrenal cortex (outer part) and adrenal medulla (inner region)

  - Hormones released by adrenal CORTEX are vital for life, unlike ones released by adrenal medulla