Endocrine System
The endocrine system helps regulate mood, growth, blood pressure, development, digestion, and reproductive processes.
It helps influence almost every cell in your body. Like the nervous system, the endocrine system sends out chemical messengers to other parts of the body. However instead of neurotransmitters, it uses chemicals called hormones.
Hormones travel in the circulatory system towards their destination, usually a target gland or organ. The endocrine system can also help us respond to changes however the changes are not immediate, they can take from a couple seconds to a couple of hours.
Glands of the Endocrine System
Hypothalamus - The hypothalamus makes hormones that control the pituitary gland; In addition, it makes hormones that are stored in the pituitary gland.
Thyroid- The thyroid produces thyroxin, which regulates metabolism throughout the body.
Pituitary Gland -The pituitary gland produces hormones that regulate many of the other endocrine glands.
Parathyroid Glands -These four glands release parathyroid hormones, which regulates the level of calcium in the blood.
Thymus - During childhood, the thymus release thymosine, which stimulates T cell development and proper immune response.
Adrenal Glands - The adrenal glands release epinephrine and norepinephrine which help the body respond to stress.
Pancreas - The pancreas produces insulin and glucagon, which regulates the level of glucose in the blood.
Ovary - Ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen is required for the development of female secondary characteristics and the development of eggs. Progesterone prepares the uterus for a fertilized egg.
Testis - The testes produce testosterone, which is responsible for sperm production and the development of male secondary sex characteristics.
Pineal Gland - The pineal gland releases melatonin which is involved in rhythmic activities, such as daily sleep-wake cycles.
