1. The Endocrine System Chapter 2, Lecture 3 “If the nervous system’s communication delivers messages rather like e-mail, the endocrine system is the body’s snail mail.” - David Myers

2. The Endocrine System The Endocrine System is the body’s “slow” chemical communication system. Communication is carried out by hormones synthesized by a set of glands.

3. Hormones Hormones are chemicals synthesized by the endocrine glands that are secreted in the bloodstream. Hormones affect the brain and many other tissues of the body. For example, epinephrine (adrenaline) increases heart rate, blood pressure, blood sugar, and feelings of excitement during emergency situations.

4. Pineal Gland Regulates biological rhythms (menstrual cycle, sleep/wake cycle); Responsive to sunlight (melatonin)

5. Thyroid & Parathyroid Glands Regulate metabolic and calcium rate. Uses thyroxin to regulate metabolism (more thyroxin  higher metabolism) Uses parathormone to regulate ion levels in neurons

6. Gonads Sex glands are located in different places in men and women. They regulate bodily development and maintain reproductive organs in adults.

7. Islets of Langerhans (Pancreas) Regulates level of sugar in the blood: Glucagon increases blood sugar, insulin decreases sugar (factors in huger motive and how energetic someone feels)

8. Adrenal Glands Adrenal glands consist of the adrenal medulla and the cortex. The medulla secretes hormones (epinephrine and norepinephrine) during stressful and emotional situations, while the adrenal cortex regulates salt and carbohydrate metabolism.

9. Pituitary Gland Is called the “master gland.” The anterior pituitary lobe releases hormones that regulate other glands. The posterior lobe regulates water and salt balance. Regulates stress reactions and disease resistance; secrets growth hormone (cause of dwarfism and gigantism).

10. Homework Study!