All Flashcards
What is the endocrine system?
The body's chemical communication network using hormones secreted by glands to regulate functions.
What are hormones?
Chemical messengers released by glands into the bloodstream that travel to target organs.
What is the pineal gland?
A gland that produces melatonin, regulating the sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm).
What is the hypothalamus?
The control center that regulates the pituitary gland and is crucial for fighting, fleeing, feeding, and mating.
What is the pituitary gland?
The 'master gland' controlled by the hypothalamus, regulating growth and releasing hormones like oxytocin.
What is the thyroid gland?
A gland that affects metabolism.
What are the parathyroids?
Glands that regulate calcium levels in the blood.
What are the adrenal glands?
Glands that trigger the 'fight-or-flight' response, releasing epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine.
What is the pancreas?
A gland that regulates blood sugar levels by releasing insulin and also aids in digestion.
What are the testes?
Male reproductive glands that release sex hormones for growth and development.
What are the ovaries?
Female reproductive glands that release sex hormones for growth and development.
How does the endocrine system relate to stress?
The hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal glands work together to release hormones like cortisol and adrenaline in response to stress.
How does the endocrine system affect sleep?
The pineal gland produces melatonin, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle.
How does the endocrine system regulate blood sugar?
The pancreas releases insulin to regulate blood sugar levels.
How does the endocrine system influence social bonding?
The pituitary gland releases oxytocin, which promotes bonding and trust.
How can problems with the thyroid affect someone?
Problems with the thyroid can affect metabolism, leading to weight gain or loss, fatigue, and other symptoms.
How does the endocrine system play a role in growth?
The pituitary gland releases growth hormones that are vital for physical development.
How does the endocrine system influence appetite?
The hypothalamus regulates hunger, and hormones like insulin affect blood sugar levels, which can influence appetite.
How does the endocrine system relate to the autonomic nervous system?
The adrenal glands, part of the endocrine system, are connected to the autonomic nervous system and trigger the 'fight-or-flight' response.
How can a stressful childhood affect the endocrine system?
Early stress can affect gene expression, leading to higher stress levels later in life, influencing the endocrine system's response.
How does diabetes relate to the endocrine system?
Diabetes is related to the pancreas not producing enough insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels.
What is the role of the hypothalamus in the endocrine system?
It acts as the control center, regulating the pituitary gland and influencing functions like hunger, thirst, and stress response.
What is the function of melatonin?
Melatonin regulates the sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm).
What is the 'fight-or-flight' response?
A physiological reaction triggered by the adrenal glands releasing epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine in response to stress.
What is the role of insulin?
Insulin regulates blood sugar levels by allowing glucose to enter cells.
What is the function of oxytocin?
Oxytocin promotes bonding and trust.
How does the endocrine system communicate?
Glands release hormones into the bloodstream, which travel to target organs and bind to receptors, triggering a response.
What is the function of epinephrine?
Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, increases heart rate, blood pressure, and energy supplies.
What is the function of norepinephrine?
Norepinephrine increases arousal and alertness and promotes vigilance.
What is the general role of hormones released by the testes and ovaries?
These hormones are responsible for growth, development, and reproductive functions.
What is the difference between the endocrine and nervous systems?
Endocrine messages are slower but longer-lasting than the nervous system's electrochemical signals.