The Endocrine System and Homeostasis 9 Biology
The Endocrine System: Includes glands and organs Releases hormones into the bloodstream Regulates cell behavior Maintains homeostasis in human systems
Hormones Endocrine glands release hormones into bloodstream Hormones are chemical messengers that have a target organ Hormones only affect behavior of target organ
Positive Feedback Loops: Homeostasis is maintained by using the endocrine system (pituitary gland) and hormones (oxytocin) Ex. Before birth, baby pushes on cervix, stretching it, stretching causes oxytocin to be released which causes uterus to contract, causing the baby to push against cervix
Negative Feedback Loops: Change is detected, so mechanisms adjust system back to ideal conditions Ex. Rise in blood sugar triggers insulin release cells take up glucose blood sugar lowered back to original level.
Feedback Loops: Positive Negative Initial change brings about additional change Original stimulus is enhanced. Causes a continuation Original balance is constantly regulated Once original balance is restored, response is stopped. Causes a cessation
Hormone Chart Hormone: Synthesized in: Function: Insulin Oxytocin Testosterone Estrogen