Endocrine System

• definition

  • Instructs glands to manufacture and secrete hormones
  • Provides chemical system of communication via bloodstream
  • Regulates activity of cells in body
• pituitary

  • Releases hormones from other glands
• adrenal

  • Important in fight / flight
  • Made of adrenal medulla (releases adrenaline)
  • Adrenaline speeds up body responses
  • Noradrenaline constricts blood vessels
  • Adrenal cortex releases cortisol for stress
• testes

  • Facilitates release of testosterone
  • Causes development of characteristics
  • Role in sex drive, aggression and health
• ovaries

  • Facilitates release of oestrogen and progesterone
  • Needed for menstruation and sensitivity to social cues
• pineal gland

  • Produces melatonin
  • Regulates sleep and wake cycle
  • Levels rise at night
  • Affects SAD