Endocrine system

• What is the endocrine system?

  A network of glands that secrete hormones
• How does the endocrine system work with the nervous system?

  It controls vital functions alongside the nervous system
• What are hormones?

  Chemical messengers secreted by glands
• How are hormones released into the body?

  They are released directly into the bloodstream
• Name the major glands in the endocrine system.

  Pituitary gland, adrenal glands, reproductive organs
• What is the role of the pituitary gland?

  It regulates the endocrine system by releasing hormones
• What is the adrenal gland's role in the body?

  Facilitates the release of adrenaline
• What hormones do the testes produce?

  Testosterone
• What hormones do the ovaries produce?

  Estrogen and progesterone
• How does the endocrine system maintain hormone levels?

  Through feedback mechanisms involving the hypothalamus
• What happens when cortisol levels are too high?

  It can lead to Cushing's syndrome
• What is the primary function of the pituitary gland?

  To influence the release of hormones from other glands
• What hormones does the anterior pituitary produce?

  ACTH, LH, and FSH
• What does ACTH stimulate?

  The adrenal glands to produce cortisol
• What is the role of oxytocin?

  Stimulates uterine contractions during childbirth
• What are the two parts of the adrenal glands?

  Adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla
• What does the adrenal cortex produce?

  Cortisol and aldosterone
• What is the function of adrenaline?

  Prepares the body for fight or flight
• What do the ovaries produce besides eggs?

  Estrogen and progesterone
• What is the role of testosterone?

  Development of male characteristics
• What are endocrine glands?

  Groups of cells that produce hormones
• How is testosterone production regulated?

  By the hypothalamus and pituitary gland
• How do hormones influence behavior?

  They affect behavior in different ways
• What is the endocrine system's primary function?

  To manufacture and secrete hormones
• What are target cells?

  Cells that have specific receptors for hormones
• What happens when receptor sites are stimulated?

  A physiological reaction occurs in the target cell
• Why is timing of hormone release critical?

  It ensures normal functioning of bodily systems
• What is the effect of low cortisol levels?

  Low blood pressure and poor immune function
• What is the anterior pituitary responsible for?

  Producing hormones like ACTH, LH, and FSH
• What does the posterior pituitary release?

  Oxytocin
• What is the function of aldosterone?

  Maintaining blood volume and pressure
• What hormones does the adrenal medulla release?

  Adrenaline and noradrenaline
• What is the role of the hypothalamus in hormone regulation?

  It controls the pituitary gland's hormone release
• How does testosterone affect men?

  It influences sex drive and muscle strength
• What is a key characteristic of hormones?

  They travel through the bloodstream
• What is the significance of the pituitary gland being called the "master gland"?

  It influences the release of hormones from other glands
• What are the functions of the adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla?

  • Adrenal cortex: Produces cortisol and aldosterone
  • Adrenal medulla: Releases adrenaline and noradrenaline
• What are the key terms related to the endocrine system?

  • Endocrine Glands: Produce and secrete hormones
  • Endocrine System: Network of glands secreting hormones
  • Hormones: Chemical messengers influencing processes
  • Pituitary Gland: Master gland influencing other glands
• What are the physiological effects of cortisol?

  • Cardiovascular functions
  • Anti-inflammatory functions
  • Low levels lead to low blood pressure
• What are the effects of testosterone in males?

  • Development of male characteristics
  • Influences sex drive and sperm production
  • Maintains muscle strength and overall health