The Endocrine System

Pituitary Gland

A pituitary gland produces hormones that regulate many of the other endocrine glands.

Prostaglandins

All cells that have been shown to produce small amounts of hormonelike substancesare called prostaglandins.

Steriod Hormones

Steroid hormone are lipids. They can cross cell membranes easily, passing directly into the cytoplasm and even into the nuclei of target cells. These hormones affect gene expression and they can produce dramatic changes in cell and organism activity.

Target Cells

Target Cells are cells that have receptors for a particular hormone.

Endocrine system

The Endocrine System is made up of glands that release their products into the blood stream. The products deliver messages throughout the body.

Adrenal Gland

The adrenal gland release epinephrine and norepinephrine, which help the body respond to stress.

Pancreas

The pancreas produces insulin and gloucagon, which regulate the level of glucose in the blood.

Pineal Gland

The pineal gland releases melatonin, which is involved in rhythmic activities, such as daily sleep-wake cycles.

Testis

The testus produce testosterone, which is responsible for sperm production and development of male secondary sex characteristics.

Thyroid

The thyroid produces thyroxine, which regulates metabolism throughout the body.

Parathyroid Gland

There are four parathyroid glands. The four glands release parathyroid hormone, which regulates the level of calcium in the blood.

Endocrine Glands

Endocrine Glands release their secretions directly into the blood stream.

Exocrine Glands

Exocrine Glands release their secretions, through tubelike structures called ducts, directly to the organs that use them. (Those that release sweat, tears, and digestive juices)

Hormones

Hormones are chemicals released in one part of the body that travel through the blood stream and affect the activities of cells in other parts of the body.

Hypothalamus

Hypothalamus makes hormones that control the pituitary gland. It makes hormones that are stored in the pituitary gland.

Thymus

It happens during childhood, the thymus releases thymosin, which stimulates T cell development and proper immune response.

Nonsteriod Hormones

Nonsteroid hormones generally cannot pass through the cell membrane of their trget cells.

Ovary

Ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen is required for the development of female secondary sex characteristics and for the development of eggs. Progesterone prepares the uterus for a fertilized egg.