Module 6: The Nervous System and the Endocrine System

Endocrine System One of the body’s two communication systems A set of glands that produce hormones-- chemical messengers that circulate in the blood

Hormone Chemical messengers produced by the endocrine glands and circulated in the blood Similar to neurotransmitters in that they are also messengers

Pituitary Gland The endocrine system’s gland that, in conjunction with the brain, controls the other endocrine glands Called the “master gland” Located at the base of the brain and connects to the hypothalamus

Endocrine System – Pituitary Gland

Thyroid Gland Endocrine gland that helps regulate the energy level in the body Located in the neck

Adrenal Gland Endocrine glands that help to arouse the body in times of stress Located just above the kidneys Release epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline)

Endocrine System – Adrenal Gland

Pancreatic Gland Regulates the level of blood sugar in the blood. Insulin helps combat the glucose (sugar) in the body. When the Pancreas goes bad! Diabetes Hyperinsulinism

What is Diabetes Your pancreas secretes insulin which helps combat glucose in the body. So when you eat, your pancreas secretes a specific amount of insulin which helps break down the sugar in the body. When there is too much insulin and not enough sugar, hypoglycemia When there is too much glucose and not enough insulin, hyperglycemia.

Diabetes So diabetics must take insulin when they eat. (Through shot or insulin pump) And they must constantly monitor their blood sugar, by checking it daily. The goal is to find a homeostasis between glucose and insulin.

Types Type 1 Diabetes: effects over 2 million Americans. AKA Juvenile Diabetes because it is usually diagnosed in childhood years. Type 2 Diabetes: A growing epidemic, caused by genetics, age, or bad life-style habits. This is the diabetes people are concerned about getting.

Hyperinsulinism Basically the opposite of diabetes. Instead of not making insulin, your body makes too much insulin. Which is probably worse than not making it at all. So your body is constantly at risk for hypoglycemic seizures. Need constant glucose.

Sex Glands Ovaries (females) and testes (males) are the glands that influence emotion and physical development. Testosterone – primary males hormone Estrogen – primary female hormone Males and females have both estrogen and testosterone in their systems.