Endocrine system & Homeostasis

• What is the main function of the endocrine system?

  Maintains homeostasis in the body
• What does the term 'homeostasis' refer to?

  A stable internal environment in the body
• What are the two types of body processes controlled by the endocrine system?

  Slow and fast body processes
• How do the endocrine and nervous systems work together?

  They help the body function properly
• How many major hormones does the endocrine system release?

  More than 20 major hormones
• What is the role of hormones in the body?

  They act as chemical messengers
• What are the two types of glands in the endocrine system?

  Exocrine and endocrine glands
• How do exocrine glands differ from endocrine glands?

  Exocrine glands have ducts; endocrine do not
• What is the function of the pituitary gland?

  To control all of the other glands around the body
• What hormone does the thyroid gland produce?

  Thyroxine
• What do adrenal glands produce?

  Cortisol, androgen, and aldosterone
• Why is the pituitary gland known as the 'master gland'?

  It produces hormones that affect many organs
• Where is the thyroid gland located?

  In the neck
• What is the role of the pancreas in the endocrine system?

  Regulates sugar levels in the blood
• What are the three constants that homeostasis maintains?

  Temperature, water content, glucose levels
• What is the process called that maintains homeostasis?

  Feedback loops
• What are the three components of a feedback loop?

  Receptor, control, effector
• What is negative feedback?

  Counteracts changes to maintain stability
• What is positive feedback?

  Increases changes to amplify effects
• Give an example of negative feedback.

  Thermoregulation
• Give an example of positive feedback.

  Blood clotting
• What is the role of insulin?

  Converts excess glucose to glycogen
• What is the role of glucagon?

  Converts glycogen into glucose
• What are the major endocrine glands and their functions?

  • Hypothalamus: Regulates endocrine system
  • Pituitary Gland: Master gland, produces many hormones
  • Thyroid: Regulates metabolism and calcium levels
  • Parathyroids: Regulates calcium levels
  • Adrenal Glands: Produces stress hormones
  • Pineal Body: Regulates sleep-wake cycles
  • Pancreas: Regulates blood sugar levels
• How does poor husbandry affect homeostasis?

  • Can lead to hormonal imbalances
  • Affects temperature regulation
  • Impacts water and nutrient availability
  • May cause stress responses in animals
• What are the steps in the feedback loop for homeostasis?

  1. Receptor detects change
  2. Control processes information
  3. Effector responds to change
• What is the importance of homeostasis?

  • Maintains stable internal conditions
  • Essential for proper cell function
  • Prevents diseases and disorders
• What are the roles of insulin and glucagon in glucose regulation?

  • Insulin: Lowers blood glucose by converting it to glycogen
  • Glucagon: Raises blood glucose by converting glycogen to glucose