the endocrine system is composed of glands which secrete chemicals called hormones directly into the bloodstream. the blood carries the hormone to a target organ where it produces an effect. compared to the nervous system, the effects are slower but act for longer
what is the pituitary gland?
the pituitary gland in the brain is the master gland which secretes several hormones into the blood in response to body conditions. these hormones in turn act on other glands to stimulate other hormones to be released to bring about effects
endocrine system
what do the parts of the endocrine system do?
thyroid = produces thyroxine which is involved with regulating things like rate of metabolism, heart rate and temperature
adrenal gland = produces adrenaline, 'fight or flight'
pancreas = produces insulin, regulates glucose
ovaries = produce oestrogen for menstrual cycle
testes = produces testosterone, regulates puberty and sperm production
