The Endocrine System

• What is the primary function of the endocrine system?

  To release hormones into the bloodstream
• How do hormones differ from neurotransmitters?

  Hormones are released by glands into the bloodstream, while neurotransmitters are released by neurons
• What are the effects of hormones on the body?

  They have profound and long-lasting effects on body and behavior
• What are the major glands of the endocrine system?

  • Pituitary gland
  • Hypothalamus
  • Pineal gland
  • Thyroid gland
  • Thymus
  • Pancreas
  • Adrenal glands
  • Testes and ovaries
• What is the pituitary gland often referred to as?

  The master gland
• Why is the pituitary gland called the master gland?

  Its hormonal secretions influence the release of hormones by other glands
• What hormone does the pituitary gland release as part of the fight-or-flight response?

  ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic hormone)
• What is the role of the hypothalamus in the endocrine system?

  It works with the pituitary gland to regulate the endocrine system
• What hormone does the hypothalamus release?

  CRH (Corticotropin-releasing hormone)
• What is the function of the pineal gland?

  It modulates sleep patterns by releasing melatonin
• What hormone is released by the pineal gland?

  Melatonin
• What is the primary function of the thyroid gland?

  To influence metabolic rate
• What hormones are released by the thyroid gland?

  Thyroid hormones such as thyroxine
• What is the role of the thymus gland?

  To stimulate the development of T-cells for the immune response
• What hormone does the thymus release?

  Thymosin
• What is the function of the pancreas in the endocrine system?

  To regulate blood sugar levels
• What hormones are released by the pancreas?

  Insulin and glucagon
• What is the role of the adrenal glands?

  To release cortisol and adrenaline during stress
• Where are the adrenal glands located?

  On top of each kidney
• What hormones do the testes produce?

  Testosterone
• What hormones do the ovaries produce?

  Estrogen
• What are the key glands and hormones to focus on for revision in the endocrine system?

  • Pituitary gland: ACTH
  • Pancreas: Insulin and glucagon
  • Adrenal glands: Cortisol and adrenaline
  • Testes: Testosterone
  • Ovaries: Estrogen
• How long has the term "hormone" been in use?

  Just over 100 years
• What ancient practice is related to the study of hormones?

  Chinese healers extracting sex hormones from urine
• How long has diabetes been diagnosed?

  For over 2,000 years
• Who popularized the diagnosis of diabetes?

  Hippocrates
• What are the implications of the pancreas not producing insulin?

  • Leads to diabetes
  • Results in high blood sugar levels
  • Requires management through diet or medication