Understanding:
• Endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream
The endocrine system is comprised of ductless glands that release chemicals into the blood to regulate body functions
- A hormone is a chemical messenger that is transported indiscriminately via the bloodstream to act on distant target cells
- Hormones are specific and will only activate cells or tissues that possess the appropriate target receptor
- The endocrine system is slower to initiate, but has a more prolonged response when compared to the nervous system
Endocrine Signalling
Endocrine Glands
Endocrine glands secrete their product (hormones) directly into the bloodstream, rather than through a duct (e.g. exocrine gland)
- Major endocrine glands include the pancreas, adrenal gland, thyroid gland, pineal gland and the gonads (ovaries and testes)
- The hypothalamus and pituitary gland are neuroendocrine glands and function to link the nervous and endocrine systems
- Some organs may also secrete hormones despite not being endocrine glands (e.g. adipose tissue secretes leptin)
Examples of Endocrine Glands
