endocrine system

• • Consists of glands producing chemical molecules called hormones
• • Transferred more slowly via the bloodstream and can target cells that are widely distributed throughout the body
• • Regulated functions of the endocrine system include:
  • Rates of chemical reactions in cells (metabolism)
  • Transport of substances across cell membranes
  • Secretion of other hormones
  • Growth and reproduction
  • Water balance
• • Glands are stimulated to secrete hormones by messages from the nervous system, by other hormones or by receptors located in that particular gland
• • Hormones are then transported to their target organs/cells possessing the receptors for the particular hormone. The hormone cause these cells to change their activity in a way that will maintain homeostasis within the body.