the endocrine system

• the endocrine system is a communication system within the body
• the endocrine system is comprised of a network of glands that manufacture and secrete hormones which regulate the organs of the body. each gland produces a different hormone that can only bind with specific receptor sites on other glands/organs.
• the pituitary gland produces hormones whose primary function is to influence the release of hormones from other glands and regulate many of the body’s functions.
• the pituitary gland is controlled by the hypothalamus which receives information from many sources and regulates the body’s functions.
• the anterior pituitary releases ACTH, growth hormone, luteinising hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone.
• the posterior pituitary releases oxytocin.
• the adrenal glands are made up of the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla.
• the adrenal cortex produces cortisol which is often released in response to chronic stress.
• the adrenal medulla releases adrenaline and noradrenaline, hormones that prepare the body for fight or flight.
• the endocrine system uses blood vessels to deliver hormones to target organs.
• the effects of the endocrine system are slow to initiate, and prolonged and powerful in their response, lasting from a few hours up to weeks.
• the hypothalamus is the brain region controlling the pituitary gland.
• the thyroid gland affects metabolism, among other things.
• the parathyroids help regulate levels of calcium in the blood
• the testis secrete male sex hormones.
• the pituitary gland secretes many different hormones, some of which affect other glands.
• the adrenal glands help trigger the fight-or-flight response.
• the pancreas regulates the level of sugar in the blood.
• the ovary secretes female sex hormones.