The Endocrine System
The endocrine system is a network of glands that produce and secrete hormones to regulate various bodily functions. This page provides an overview of the key components and functions of the endocrine system.
Definition: The endocrine system is a network of glands throughout the body that manufacture and secrete chemical messengers known as hormones.
The endocrine system uses blood vessels to deliver hormones to their targets. Hormones are chemicals that circulate in the bloodstream and affect specific target cells in the body.
Key glands and their functions include:
- Pituitary gland (the "master gland"): Produces hormones like ACTH and oxytocin
- Adrenal glands: Produce stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline
- Ovaries: Produce estrogen and progesterone
- Testes: Produce testosterone
Example: The anterior pituitary releases ACTH in response to stress, which stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol.
Highlight: The endocrine system regulates critical functions like growth, development, metabolism, stress response, and reproduction.
The endocrine system differs from the nervous system in that its chemical signals are slower-moving but longer-lasting. It works in tandem with the nervous system to coordinate the body's internal processes.
Vocabulary: Target cells - The specific cells that a particular hormone affects
This overview provides essential information for students studying A level Psychology approaches and the biological basis of behavior. Understanding the endocrine system is crucial for topics like stress, emotion, and motivation in AQA A level Psychology.
