Endocrine System Overview

A system of glands that releases hormones, controlling growth, development and reproduction.

Chemical messengers produced by glands and transported through the bloodstream.

Glands that release substances into ducts, such as salivary glands and sweat glands.

Glands that release hormones directly into the bloodstream.

A process that increases the number of receptors for a specific hormone.

A process that decreases the number of receptors for a specific hormone.

A biologically active organic compound, often involved in regulating body functions.

Proteins that help speed up metabolic reactions.

Hormones made from lipids, like cholesterol and phospholipids. They can easily pass through cell membranes due to their fat-soluble nature.

Hormones made from amino acids and unable to pass through cell membranes directly because they are not fat-soluble.

Ductless glands that release hormones into the bloodstream, playing a key role in maintaining chemical coordination and regulating body functions.

Hormones play a specific role in regulating certain bodily functions, targeting specific organs and cells.

The master gland located in the brain, its anterior and posterior lobes secrete hormones that regulate various other glands and functions.

The anterior pituitary lobe is the front part of the pituitary gland, responsible for secreting hormones that control other glands like the thyroid.

The posterior pituitary lobe is the back part of the pituitary gland, which is responsible for releasing hormones like antidiuretic hormone (ADH).

The hypothalamus, located at the base of the brain, links the nervous and endocrine systems by secreting hormones that control other pituitary hormones.

A hormone produced by the adrenal medulla that prepares the body for "fight or flight" response by increasing heart rate, respiration, and blood flow to muscles and brain.

A condition caused by excessive cortisol production, leading to symptoms like weight gain, muscle weakness, and high blood sugar.

A hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that regulates blood glucose levels, responding to stress.

A disorder caused by adrenal cortex insufficiency, leading to low blood sugar, fatigue, and weight loss.

A hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that regulates blood osmotic pressure, affecting water retention and blood pressure.

A hormone produced by the testes that regulates male secondary sexual characteristics like muscle mass and facial hair.

A hormone produced by the pancreas that lowers blood glucose levels by converting glucose into glycogen.

A hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels by converting glycogen into glucose.

A hormone produced by the ovaries that stimulates thickening of the uterus during ovulation and regulates female secondary sexual characteristics.

Cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.

Progesterone is a hormone produced in the ovaries. It prepares the uterus for pregnancy by thickening the uterine lining.

Excess progesterone can hinder the uterus from contracting during childbirth, making it harder for the mother to deliver the baby.

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It plays a crucial role in the development of male secondary sexual characteristics.

Before puberty, testosterone deficiency can prevent the development of normal male secondary sexual characteristics like facial hair and a deep voice.

After puberty, testosterone deficiency can lead to impotence, a difficulty in achieving and maintaining an erection.

Hormone secretion is carefully regulated by other hormones, metabolites, and the nervous system, ensuring balance and functionality.

Growth hormone (GH) is essential for normal growth and development. Deficiency in children leads to dwarfism, while excess can cause gigantism.

Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes. It is crucial for optimal function.

Stimulates egg production in females and sperm production in males.

Causes ovulation in females and testosterone production in males.

Growth hormone (GH) is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates growth in various tissues. It also contributes to bone growth and fat metabolism.

Prolactin (PRL) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates milk production in the mammary glands.

Thyroxine, a hormone produced by the thyroid gland, contains four iodine atoms.

Thyroxine controls metabolism and stimulates normal physical growth and mental development. It influences how your body uses energy.

Parathyroid hormone is produced by the parathyroid glands and regulates calcium levels in the blood.

Adrenal glands produce hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, playing a role in stress response, blood sugar control, and regulating electrolyte balance.