Open the App

Subjects

Biology

3 Dec 2025

591

1 page

Introduction to the Endocrine System: Glands and Hormones Explained

user profile picture

Ruby-Olivia @rubyolivia_xo

Your body has its own chemical messaging system called the endocrine systemthat uses hormones to control everything... Show more

Endocrine system
Pituitary Gland
• known as the 'master gland'
controls and stimulates the realse of hormones from other glands
the pituitar

The Endocrine System Your Body's Control Centre

Ever wondered how your body knows when to grow taller, speed up your heart, or control your blood sugar after eating? It's all down to six key glands that work like a perfectly coordinated team.

The pituitary gland sits in your brain and acts as the 'master gland' - it's basically the boss that tells other glands what to do. This tiny powerhouse produces LH and FSH, which are crucial hormones that control reproduction and sexual development.

When you're stressed or scared, your adrenal glands kick into action by releasing adrenaline. This creates the famous 'fight or flight' response - that rush you feel before an exam or when you're startled. Your thyroid gland works more quietly in the background, producing thyroxine to control your metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature.

Quick Tip Remember the pancreas does double duty - it's part of both your digestive AND endocrine systems!

Your pancreas is vital for survival because it produces insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. Meanwhile, your reproductive glands - ovaries in females (producing oestrogen for the menstrual cycle) and testes in males (producing testosterone for puberty and sperm production) - control sexual development and reproduction.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

17

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Plant Hormones & Homeostasis

Explore the essential roles of plant hormones in growth and responses to environmental stimuli, alongside the mechanisms of hormonal coordination in humans. This summary covers key concepts such as tropisms, the endocrine system, blood sugar regulation, and the importance of homeostasis in both plants and animals. Ideal for AQA Biology revision.

BiologyBiology
10

Homeostasis & Hormonal Control

Explore key concepts in homeostasis and hormonal regulation, including the nervous and endocrine systems, hormonal contraception, diabetes management, IVF, and the menstrual cycle. This comprehensive summary is essential for AQA Combined Science Higher Biology, covering vital topics like negative feedback mechanisms and fertility treatments.

BiologyBiology
11

Biology Concepts Overview

Explore key concepts in biology including cell structure, photosynthesis, eye anatomy, immunology, and the nervous system. This comprehensive summary covers essential topics for AQA GCSE, focusing on human hormones, kidney function, disease prevention, and more. Ideal for students preparing for exams.

BiologyBiology
11

Blood Glucose Regulation

Explore the mechanisms of blood glucose regulation, focusing on the roles of insulin and glucagon produced by the pancreas. This summary covers how these hormones maintain normal blood sugar levels, the processes involved in storing and releasing glucose, and their significance in conditions like diabetes. Ideal for students studying human hormones and hormonal control.

BiologyBiology
12

Homeostasis & Hormonal Control

Explore the intricate mechanisms of homeostasis and hormonal regulation in AQA Biology GCSE. This comprehensive study note covers plant and human hormones, feedback systems, the nervous system, and key processes like the menstrual cycle and blood glucose regulation. Ideal for students preparing for their exams, this resource provides clear explanations and essential concepts for mastering Topic 5.

BiologyBiology
9

Homeostasis & Hormonal Control

Explore the key concepts of homeostasis, hormonal control, and the menstrual cycle in this comprehensive study resource. Understand the roles of the nervous and endocrine systems, blood glucose regulation, and various contraception methods. Ideal for GCSE Combined Science students preparing for exams.

BiologyBiology
9

Most popular content: Pituitary Gland

Most popular content in Biology

Most popular content

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Biology

591

3 Dec 2025

1 page

Introduction to the Endocrine System: Glands and Hormones Explained

user profile picture

Ruby-Olivia

@rubyolivia_xo

Your body has its own chemical messaging system called the endocrine systemthat uses hormones to control everything from your heart rate to your growth. Think of it as your body's internal communication network that keeps all your organs working... Show more

Endocrine system
Pituitary Gland
• known as the 'master gland'
controls and stimulates the realse of hormones from other glands
the pituitar

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

The Endocrine System: Your Body's Control Centre

Ever wondered how your body knows when to grow taller, speed up your heart, or control your blood sugar after eating? It's all down to six key glands that work like a perfectly coordinated team.

The pituitary gland sits in your brain and acts as the 'master gland' - it's basically the boss that tells other glands what to do. This tiny powerhouse produces LH and FSH, which are crucial hormones that control reproduction and sexual development.

When you're stressed or scared, your adrenal glands kick into action by releasing adrenaline. This creates the famous 'fight or flight' response - that rush you feel before an exam or when you're startled. Your thyroid gland works more quietly in the background, producing thyroxine to control your metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature.

Quick Tip: Remember the pancreas does double duty - it's part of both your digestive AND endocrine systems!

Your pancreas is vital for survival because it produces insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. Meanwhile, your reproductive glands - ovaries in females (producing oestrogen for the menstrual cycle) and testes in males (producing testosterone for puberty and sperm production) - control sexual development and reproduction.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

17

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Plant Hormones & Homeostasis

Explore the essential roles of plant hormones in growth and responses to environmental stimuli, alongside the mechanisms of hormonal coordination in humans. This summary covers key concepts such as tropisms, the endocrine system, blood sugar regulation, and the importance of homeostasis in both plants and animals. Ideal for AQA Biology revision.

BiologyBiology
10

Homeostasis & Hormonal Control

Explore key concepts in homeostasis and hormonal regulation, including the nervous and endocrine systems, hormonal contraception, diabetes management, IVF, and the menstrual cycle. This comprehensive summary is essential for AQA Combined Science Higher Biology, covering vital topics like negative feedback mechanisms and fertility treatments.

BiologyBiology
11

Biology Concepts Overview

Explore key concepts in biology including cell structure, photosynthesis, eye anatomy, immunology, and the nervous system. This comprehensive summary covers essential topics for AQA GCSE, focusing on human hormones, kidney function, disease prevention, and more. Ideal for students preparing for exams.

BiologyBiology
11

Blood Glucose Regulation

Explore the mechanisms of blood glucose regulation, focusing on the roles of insulin and glucagon produced by the pancreas. This summary covers how these hormones maintain normal blood sugar levels, the processes involved in storing and releasing glucose, and their significance in conditions like diabetes. Ideal for students studying human hormones and hormonal control.

BiologyBiology
12

Homeostasis & Hormonal Control

Explore the intricate mechanisms of homeostasis and hormonal regulation in AQA Biology GCSE. This comprehensive study note covers plant and human hormones, feedback systems, the nervous system, and key processes like the menstrual cycle and blood glucose regulation. Ideal for students preparing for their exams, this resource provides clear explanations and essential concepts for mastering Topic 5.

BiologyBiology
9

Homeostasis & Hormonal Control

Explore the key concepts of homeostasis, hormonal control, and the menstrual cycle in this comprehensive study resource. Understand the roles of the nervous and endocrine systems, blood glucose regulation, and various contraception methods. Ideal for GCSE Combined Science students preparing for exams.

BiologyBiology
9

Most popular content: Pituitary Gland

Most popular content in Biology

Most popular content

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user