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The human endocrine system

The human endocrine system

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The human endocrine system

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Explainer Video

Tutor: Henry

Summary

The human endocrine system

In a nutshell

Hormones are produced by endocrine glands and travel around the body in the blood. This allows them to reach their target organs. Each target organ has a response to a hormone. Different hormones have different target organs and cause different responses. Hormones are therefore a way your body communicates with itself.



Hormones

​​Definition

Hormones are chemical substances produced by endocrine glands that are released directly into the bloodstream. They alter the activity of specific target organs. These endocrine glands make up the endocrine system. 

​

Example

Adrenaline is produced by the adrenal glands. One of its target organs is the heart and here adrenaline is able to increase heart rate.



Release of hormones

Different endocrine glands produce different hormones as shown in the diagram below.

Gland

Hormone(s)

Target organ(s)

1.

Hypothalamus

Thyrotropin-releasing hormone, corticotropin-releasing hormone

Pituitary gland

2.

Pituitary

Thyroid stimulating hormone, antidiuretic hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, luteinising hormone

Thyroid gland, kidneys and ovaries

3.

Thyroid

Thyroxine

Various organs

4.

Adrenal

Adrenaline

Various organs

5.

Pancreas

Insulin, glucagon

Liver, muscle and adipose tissues

6.

Ovaries 

Oestrogen, progesterone

Ovaries, uterus and pituitary gland

7.

Testes

Testosterone

Male reproductive organs


Pituitary gland

The pituitary gland produces many hormones that regulate body conditions. It is sometimes called the 'master gland' as the hormones it produces act on other glands and causes them to produce hormones. 



Hormones and nerves

Both nerves and hormones help humans respond to changes in the environment and their bodies. Hormones usually have a long-lived effect and act in a more general way whereas nerves normally have a short-term effect and act on a precise area. This is because nerve impulses work quickly while hormones take longer to work. 

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Hormones: adrenaline and thyroxine - Higher

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Hormones: adrenaline and thyroxine - Higher

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The human endocrine system

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The human endocrine system

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FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between hormones and nerves?

Hormones usually have a long-lived effect and act in a more general way, whereas nerves have a short-term effect and act in a specific way. Nerve impulses work quickly while hormones take longer to work.

What are the seven glands of the endocrine system?

The seven glands of the endocrine system are the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, ovaries and testes.

What is the endocrine system?

The endocrine glands make up the endocrine system. Endocrine glands produce hormones.

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