The Endocrine System

The Endocrine System

1. Pancreas

   • Produces insulin & glucagon (both of which are involved in restoring Blood Glucose Levels).

2. Ovaries (Female)

   • Produce oestrogen, which controls puberty.
   • Oestrogen is one of the main hormones in the regulation of the menstrual cycle.

3. Thyroid Gland

   • In the neck & releases thyroxine.
   • Thyroxine regulates the temperature, heart rate & metabolism (metabolic rate).

4. Adrenal Glands

   • Situated above the kidney.
   • Produces adrenaline & prepares the body for stressful situations. I.E Fight of Flight Response.

5. Pituitary Gland

   • It is the Master gland.
   • It is found in the brain.
   • It releases hormones in response to changes detected by the HYPOTHALAMUS
   • Lots of these hormones trigger other glands to release more hormones.
   • It is linked to the HYPOTHALAMUS (part of the brain that recieves signals from receptors).

6. Testes (Male)

   • Produces testosterone which controls puberty & sperm production

7. Features of the Endocrine system

   • Triggers a slow response
   • Uses chemical messengers that are carried by blood
   • Long-lasting response
   • Can act on large areas of the body