The Endocrine System

• Endocrine System:

  > provides a chemical system of communication within the blood stream to regulate the activity of cells and organs

  > slower than the nervous system, but the effects are more widespread and powerful

  > chemical messengers = hormones, which are released by glands to regulate bodily functions
• Gland - an organ that secretes hormones that regulates functions in the body.
• Pituitary Gland:

  > master gland

  > secretes hormones that control the functions of other glands
• Pineal Gland:

  > secretes melatonin

  > melatonin is involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle - makes the person feel tired and therefore ready to sleep
• Adrenal Gland:

  > secretes adrenaline

  > adrenaline causes physiological changes involved in the fight or flight response e.g. increased blood flow to transport oxygen to the brain for rapid response planning
• Ovaries:

  > anterior pituitary gland releases LH and FSH

  > encourages ovaries to release oestrogen and progesterone - regulate the female menstrual cycle and prepares body for reproduction
• Testes:

  > anterior pituitary gland releases LH and FSH

  > encourages testicles to release testosterone - creates male characteristics and is involved in the production of sperm