9.1

• Endocrine system


  • Composed of glands and cells that secrete hormones
  • Helps coordinate functions between cells
  • Critical for maintaining homeostasis
• Functions regulated by the endocrine system

  • Growth and development
  • Metabolism and water balance
  • Reproduction and stress responses
• Second messenger system


  Uses chemical messages (hormones) that are released into the bloodstream
• Processes controlled by hormones

  • Reproduction
  • Growth and development
  • Mobilization of body defenses
  • Maintenance of homeostasis
  • Regulation of metabolism
• Hormones


  • Produced by specialized cells
  • Secreted into extracellular fluids
  • Transferred by blood to target sites
  • Regulate the activity of other cells
• Endocrinology


  Study of the endocrine system and diagnosis and treatment of its disorders
• Hormones


  Chemical messengers secreted by endocrine glands or tissues into blood, travel everywhere blood goes, and affect only target cells with receptors
• Functions of hormones


  • Control homeostasis
  • Maintain water balance
  • Control uterine contractions
  • Control milk production (progesterone pregnant hormone)
  • Regulate ions (Ca, Na, K)
  • Regulate metabolism and growth
  • Regulate heart rate and blood pressure
  • Monitor blood glucose levels
  • Aid immune system
  • Regulate reproductive functions