Endocrine System

• What is the Endocrine System?

  A network of glands throughout the body that create and secrete hormones (chemical messengers) which are required to regulate many bodily functions
• What glands are involved in the Endocrine System?

  1. Pituitary Gland
  2. Pineal Gland
  3. Adrenal Gland
  4. Thyroid Gland
  5. Testes Gland
  6. Ovaries Gland
• What is the Pituitary Gland?

  • A small pea sized gland located at the base of your brain below your hypothalamus
  • Known as the 'master gland' as it controls the functions of many glands
  • Makes certain hormones such as oxytocin - involved during childbirth
• What is the Pineal Gland?

  Produces the hormone melatonin which helps regulate sleep and synchronises our sleep wake cycle with night and day

  Melatonin increases so your body temp and blood pressure decrease to prepare you for sleep
• What is the Thyroid Gland?

  • Produces the hormone thyroxine
  • Controls how much energy your body uses
• What is the Adrenal Gland?

  • Found near the kidneys and produces the hormone adrenaline
  • Stimulates the sympathetic nervous system
  • Activates the Fight or Flight response
• Testes

  • Reproductive glands that produce sperm and the hormone testosterone
  • Higher levels of testosterone are associated with aggression
• Ovaries

  • Produces oestrogen which is helpful in the menstrual cycle
  • Stores eggs
• Differences between the endocrine and nervous system

  • Endocrine system is a longer process but the nervous system is a quick process
  • Endocrine system is permanent but the nervous system is temporary