Composed of different glands which secrete hormones that regulate metabolism, growth and development, mood, and reproduction
Hormones
Organic substances released by the glands of the endocrine system directly into the bloodstream, capable of changing the physiological and metabolic behaviors of their target cells to maintain homeostasis
Major endocrine glands
Pituitary
Thyroid
Parathyroid
Thymus
Adrenal
Pancreas
Ovaries
Testes
Reproduction
A normal process controlled by hormones, required for continued production of species
Pituitary gland
Controls the functions of both the testes and ovaries
Male reproductive system
1. Pituitary gland releases FSH and LH
2. FSH stimulates Sertoli cells to nourish sperm cells
3. LH stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone
4. Testosterone develops male secondary sexual characteristics and stimulates sperm production
Female reproductive system
1. Follicles produce estrogen to control growth and release of eggs
2. Progesterone prepares uterus for fertilized egg
3. Inhibin produced by follicle cells inhibits FSH production
4. FSH and LH regulate estrogen-progesterone levels, affect follicle development and ovulation
Endocrine system disorders
Osteoporosis
Goiter
Gigantism
Dwarfism
Osteoporosis
Reduced mineral density of bone, making it brittle and porous, caused by parathyroid hormone secretion
Goiter
Abnormal enlargement of thyroid gland, caused by underproduction or overproduction of thyroid hormones
Gigantism
Abnormal increase in height during childhood, associated with too much secretion of growth hormones
Dwarfism
Short stature, caused by insufficient production of growth hormones in pituitary gland
