Endocrine System Definition

Endocrine System Definition

• The endocrine system is a network of glands that produce and secrete hormones internally
• Glands produce and release hormones, which are chemicals that travel to organs, skin, tissues, and muscles in the body

Endocrine System Function

• The main function of the endocrine system is to regulate and monitor hormone levels in the blood
• Hormones regulate moods, growth, metabolism, development, and reproduction
• The pituitary gland senses hormone levels and relays information to other glands to produce or stop producing hormones

Parts of the Endocrine System

• The endocrine system consists of several glands, including:
  • Hypothalamus: regulates and controls the endocrine system, combining information from the nervous system and other glands
  • Pituitary gland: produces hormones that control other glands, such as the thyroid and adrenal glands, and testes and ovaries
  • Thyroid gland: regulates metabolism by producing the thyroid hormone
  • Parathyroid gland: maintains bone health by balancing calcium levels in the blood
  • Thymus gland: produces white blood cells (T-lymphocytes) and is critical for the immune system
  • Adrenal gland: produces adrenaline and is responsible for the body's fight or flight response
  • Pancreas: produces insulin, regulating sugar levels in the blood and controlling energy levels

How the Endocrine System Works

• The endocrine system continuously monitors hormone levels in the blood, maintaining homeostasis and optimal bodily functioning
• Hormones travel through the blood to target organs or cells, where they initiate cellular changes corresponding to their function
• The endocrine system regulates processes such as cellular metabolism, sugar and nutrient homeostasis, blood pressure, heart rate, sleep, digestion, and sexual development