The endocrine system

• Endocrine system


  The system in the body that is controlled by chemicals called hormones
• Endocrine system

  • Consists of a number of glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream
  • Hormones are carried in the bloodstream and act on specific target organs
• Key endocrine glands

  • Pancreas
  • Ovaries
  • Testes
  • Thyroid
  • Adrenal
  • Pituitary
• Pancreas

  Releases hormones involved in controlling glucose concentration in the blood
• Ovaries and Testes

  Release hormones involved in puberty and reproduction
• Thyroid gland

  Produces hormones involved in growth and regulating basal metabolic rate
• Adrenal glands

  Release the hormone adrenaline, produced in times of fear or stress
• Pituitary gland

  Located in the brain, releases hormones that act on other glands to trigger a range of effects in the body
• The pituitary gland is called the "master gland"