Functions
The endocrine system influences every cell and every organ in our body. It is crucial in regulating mood, growth, development, tissue function, metabolism, sexual function and reproductive processes. All of these functions can be split up into two groups of main functions. One main function of this system is to maintain homeostasis. An example of this is maintaining the blood sugar levels according to changes in the body. The second main function is to promote structural changes in the body. An example of this is height which changes over time due to the endocrine system. The endocrine system is in charge of functions that happen slowly and it often works together with the nervous system.
Gland
hypothalamus pituitary gland thyroid adrenal gland pineal gland ovaries testes pancreas Thymus parathyroids |
Hormones secreted and the role of the hormones
This gland makes hormones stored in the pituitary gland and hormones that help control the pituitary gland. This gland secretes the growth hormones witch stimulates the growth of bonds and the helps the your body absorb nutrients. It also produces Prolactin which activates the production of milk in mothers. It secretes hormones on the basis of emotional and seasonal changes. It secrets endorphins which reduce your feeling of pain. This gland produces thyroxine and triidothyronine which both control the rate at which cells use the energy received from food. This is otherwise known as the metabolism. The inner part of this gland releases epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, which increases your blood pressure and heart rate when your body is in stressful circumstances. It also releases nonepinphrine which also helps your body deal with stress This gland secretes melatonin which helps to regulate your sleep cycle. This gland produces estrogen progesterone which affect many of the female characteristics. Progesterone prepares the breasts for lactation during pregnancy and estrogen is requires to form eggs. This gland produces testosterone which is required for sperm and secondary sex traits in males. This gland secretes digestive enzymes such as insulin and glucagon. These two hormones work together to maintain the level of glucose in the human body. The thymus produces thymosins which are hormones that stimulate the development of antibodies. It also produces T-lymphocytes which are white blood cells that fight infection and destroy abnormal cells. These glands release the parathyroid hormones which helps regulate calcium in bones. |
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