5E

• Signaling Molecule


  A molecule which can interact with and initiate a response in a target cell
• Hormone


  A signaling molecule released from endocrine glands that regulates the growth or activity of target cells
• Receptor


  A structure (usually a protein) that detects a signal or external change
• Target Cell


  A cell that will receive and respond to a specific signaling molecule
• Endocrine System


  The collection of glands in animals responsible for producing hormones that can be transported in the bloodstream to regulate distant organs/cells
• Gland


  A group of cells that secretes chemical substances to regions of the body or discharges them into the surroundings
• Blood Circulatory System


  The network consisting of blood vessels and the heart that pumps blood around the body
• Hypothalamus


  A section of the brain in mammals that controls much of the body's internal environment via hormone secretion
• Pituitary Gland


  A gland in the brain that plays a large role in maintaining bodily functions by controlling the activity of several other endocrine glands
• Pineal Gland


  A small gland in the brain which helps regulate sleep patterns
• Thyroid Gland


  A butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones that influence metabolic rate
• Parathyroid glands


  Four small glands in the neck that control the levels of calcium in the body
• Thymus


  A gland found between the lungs that plays a role in the body's endocrine and immune systems
• Pancreas


  An organ of the digestive and endocrine system that releases both digestive juices and hormones to regulate blood glucose
• Adrenal Glands


  Collection of endocrine cells located above the kidneys that produce a variety of hormones involved in the stress response, including cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenaline
• Placenta


  An organ that develops during pregnancy and provides oxygen and nutrients to a foetus
• Ovaries


  Female reproductive organ in which both egg cells and hormones such as oestrogen are produced
• Testes


  Male productive organ in which both sperm cells and hormones such as testosterone are produced