Human Endocrine System

• The human endocrine system is composed of glands which secrete chemicals called hormones directly into the bloodstream.
• The blood carries the hormone around the body, and when it reaches a target cell/organ it produces an effect.
• Compared to the nervous system the effects of hormones are slower but they act for longer.
• Pituitary gland: a ‘master gland’ making hormones such as FSH and LH
• Pancreas: produces insulin which regulates the blood glucose level
• Thyroid: produces thyroxine which controls metabolic rate and affects growth
• Adrenal glands: produces adrenaline
• Ovaries (females): produce oestrogen
• Testes (males): produce testosterone
• The pituitary gland in the brain is a '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.
• In certain conditions, the pituitary gland makes and secretes thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) which stimulates the thyroid to release thyroxine.