What is the Endocrine System?
The Endocrine System is a system of glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream; thus controlling bodily functions, growth, homeostasis, etc. The hormones released are chemical messangers that convey specific instructions to other parts of the body. Due to the secretion into the bloodstream, the message can take affect early as a few minutes.
Important Glands of the Endocrine System:
1. Pineal Gland: this gland is located near the thalamus inside of the brain. It produces the melatonin hormone which influences human sleep cycle.
2. Pancreas: This gland can be found in the abdominal regionof the stomach. Its role is to regulate insulin productivity and produce digestive enzymes.
3. Pituitary Gland: Commonly known as the master gland in that it regulates and controls the other glands throughout the body. It is divided into two parts: anterior and posterior. The hormone oxytocin is produced and secreted from the posterior portion of the pituitary gland.
Common Hormones:
Common Disorders:
1. Pineal Gland: this gland is located near the thalamus inside of the brain. It produces the melatonin hormone which influences human sleep cycle.
2. Pancreas: This gland can be found in the abdominal regionof the stomach. Its role is to regulate insulin productivity and produce digestive enzymes.
3. Pituitary Gland: Commonly known as the master gland in that it regulates and controls the other glands throughout the body. It is divided into two parts: anterior and posterior. The hormone oxytocin is produced and secreted from the posterior portion of the pituitary gland.
Common Hormones:
- Oxytocin: is pituitary hormone, trust hormone, associated with childbirth.
- Estrogen: is a reproductive hormone produced in the ovaries. It function is to regulate the menstrual cycle.
- Insulin: is pancreatic hormone that is used to reduce
Common Disorders:
- Type I Diabetes
- Type II Diabetes
- Hypothyroidism