Endocrine+System+DB



1. Compare and Contrast the endocrine system and the nervous system. (At least three things)

The endocrine system and the nervous system both serve to get communication between cells and different parts of the body. Both systems target certain cells and function mostly from the brain. Unlike the nervouse system though, the endocrine system uses hormones for communication and do not always act between body parts but may affect areas locally.

2. What is a steroid hormone? How does it compare to a peptide hormone?

A steroid hormone is a type of hormone that combines with a receptor and then activates an enzyme reaction in the cell. A peptide hormone is recepted at the plasma membrane and activates the same enzyme reaction. Both hormones are derived from cholesterol. 3. Explain the role of the hypothalamus.

The hypothalamus is the part of the brain that regulates the autonomic system and the secretions of the pituitary gland. It functions to control heartbeat, body temperature, and water balance.

4. Explain the role of the pituitary gland (posterior and anterior).

The posterior pituitary gland stores the hormones oxytocin and a dieuretic hormone, while the anterior pituitary gland produces over six different hormones and allows certain hormones through by way of the portal system.

5. Name the endocrine glands covered in this chapter, the hormone(s) they produce, and the function of each hormone. You may want to set up a table.

Adrenal glands- Release epinephrine and norepinephrine which manage blood pressure and heartbeat and glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids which regulate the metabolism.

The pancreas- Secretes insulin and glucagon which lower and raise the blood glucose level.

The testes and the ovaries- produces the sex hormones; androgen, estrogen and progesterone.

The thymus gland- secretes thymosins which stimulate T-lymphocyte production and maturation.

The pineal gland- makes melotonin which affects circadian rythms and development of reproductive organs.

The kidneys- produces renin which controls blood pressure