Endocrine System

The Endocrine System consists of: Glands that secrete Hormones that secrete Hormones

Hormones Are chemical messengers released into the bloodstream. Are chemical messengers released into the bloodstream. (They control many body activities)

Gland An organ or a group of cells that secretes hormones. An organ or a group of cells that secretes hormones.

Pituitary Gland The gland that controls other glands. (The Master Gland) The gland that controls other glands. (The Master Gland) It controls growth of bones and movement of smooth muscles. It controls growth of bones and movement of smooth muscles. Found in the brain Found in the brain

Thyroid Gland Produces THYROXIN – Produces THYROXIN – a hormone that controls METABOLISM. (Metabolism is the rate at which food is converted to energy in cells). Found in the neck Found in the neck

Thyroxin Too Little Causes: * Low Metabolism * Tired * Gain Weight Too Much Causes * High Metabolism, * Feel Restless * Lose Weight

Parathyroid Gland Are four glands that control the amount of calcium and phosphorus in the body. Are four glands that control the amount of calcium and phosphorus in the body. When these glands are over active, calcium leaves the bones & enters the blood causing muscle weakness. When these glands are over active, calcium leaves the bones & enters the blood causing muscle weakness. Found in the neck Found in the neck

Adrenal Glands Two glands that control the body’s water balance Two glands that control the body’s water balance Help in the digestive process Help in the digestive process Secrete adrenaline Secrete adrenaline Adrenaline – prepares the body to react under stress or in an emergency. Found next to the kidneys

Pancreas A gland that controls blood sugar levels. A gland that controls blood sugar levels. Releases a hormone called INSULIN which helps regulate blood sugar levels. Releases a hormone called INSULIN which helps regulate blood sugar levels. (part of the digestive system. Found behind the stomach)

Ovaries Two female reproductive glands that produce egg cells & estrogen. Two female reproductive glands that produce egg cells & estrogen.

Estrogen The female sex hormone that controls development of secondary sex characteristics during puberty. The female sex hormone that controls development of secondary sex characteristics during puberty.

Puberty The stage of growth and development when secondary sex characteristics appear. The stage of growth and development when secondary sex characteristics appear. Females between ages 8 – 15 Females between ages 8 – 15 Males between ages Males between ages

Testes Two male reproductiv e glands that produce sperm cells & testosteron e. Two male reproductiv e glands that produce sperm cells & testosteron e.

Testosterone The male sex hormone that controls the development of the secondary sex characteristics during puberty. The male sex hormone that controls the development of the secondary sex characteristics during puberty.