Endocrine system

• The hypothalamus is the control system which regulates the endocrine system.
• The pituitary gland is sometimes known as the master gland because the hormones released by the pituitary gland control and stimulate the release of hormones from other glands in the endocrine system.
• The main hormone released from the pineal gland is melatonin, which is responsible for important biological rhythms, including the sleep-wake cycle.
• The hypothalamus is connected to the pituitary gland and is responsible for stimulating or controlling the release of hormones from the pituitary gland.
• Hormones are chemicals released from glands into the bloodstream that travel to specific organs for functioning.
• Adrenocortical trophic hormone (ACTH) stimulates the adrenal cortex and the release of cortisol, during the stress response.
• The thyroid gland releases thyroxine which is responsible for regulating metabolism.
• The adrenal gland is divided into two parts, the adrenal medulla and the adrenal cortex.
• The adrenal medulla is responsible for releasing adrenaline and noradrenaline, which play a key role in the fight or flight response.
• The adrenal cortex releases cortisol, which stimulates the release of glucose to provide the body with energy while suppressing the immune system.
• Each gland produces a different hormone, targeted for a specific function.
• A gland is an organ in the body that synthesises and secretes hormones.
• Hormones cause physiological changes in the body, which can impact our thoughts, feelings and behaviour.
• Hormones can disappear from the bloodstream quickly.
• In females, the ovaries release oestrogen which controls the regulation of the female reproductive system, including the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
• The endocrine system is a network of glands across the body that secrete chemical messages called hormones.