New Era University
COLLEGE OF MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY
Human Anatomy and Physiology with Pathophysiology (Lecture)
1-CMT4
MW 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
MODULE 14: ENDOCRINE SYSTEM
GROUP 4
Cillan, Hexell R. ( ✅)
Labiaga, Nicole A. (✅)
Schofield, Alexandra Nicole B. (✅)
Tuazon, Fiona A. ( ✅)
DATE SUBMITTED:
November 3, 2024 (Online submission)
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The Endocrine System: A Network of Chemical Messengers
The endocrine system is a complex network of glands that produce and release hormones, which
act as chemical messengers throughout the body. These hormones regulate a wide range of
bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, mood, and reproduction
• Glands: Specialized organs that produce hormones.
• Hormones: Chemical substances that travel through the bloodstream to target cells and
tissues, triggering specific responses.
Functions:
- Growth and Development: Hormones like growth hormone and thyroid hormone regulate
growth and development from childhood to adulthood.
- Metabolism: Hormones control energy production, utilization, and storage, influencing
processes like blood sugar regulation and weight management.
- Mood and Cognition: Hormones like serotonin and dopamine play a crucial role in regulating
mood, sleep, and cognitive function.
- Reproduction: Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone control sexual
development, reproductive cycles, and fertility.
Endocrine Glands and their Hormones:
- Hypothalamus: Located in the brain, the hypothalamus produces hormones that regulate the
pituitary gland. Examples include:
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH): Stimulates the pituitary to release hormones
involved in reproduction.
- Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH): Stimulates the pituitary to release thyroid-stimulating
hormone (TSH).
- Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH): Stimulates the pituitary to release adrenocorticotropic
hormone (ACTH).
- Pituitary Gland: Also known as the "master gland," the pituitary gland is located at the base of
the brain and releases hormones that control other endocrine glands. Examples include:
- Growth hormone (GH): Promotes growth and development.
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): Stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid
hormones.
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH): Stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol.
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): Regulates the development of eggs in females and sperm
in males.
- Luteinizing hormone (LH): Triggers ovulation in females and testosterone production in males.
- Prolactin: Stimulates milk production in females.
- Pineal Gland: Located in the brain, the pineal gland produces melatonin, a hormone that
regulates sleep-wake cycles.
- Thyroid Gland: Located in the neck, the thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones, which
regulate metabolism. Examples include:
- Thyroxine (T4): The main thyroid hormone.
- Triiodothyronine (T3): A more active form of thyroid hormone.
- Parathyroid Glands: Located near the thyroid gland, the parathyroid glands produce
parathyroid hormone (PTH), which regulates calcium levels in the blood.
- Adrenal Glands: Located on top of the kidneys, the adrenal glands produce hormones that
regulate stress response, blood pressure, and metabolism. Examples include:
- Cortisol: A stress hormone that increases blood sugar levels.
- Aldosterone: Regulates blood pressure and electrolyte balance.
- Epinephrine (Adrenaline): A hormone released during stress that increases heart rate and blood
pressure.
- Norepinephrine (Noradrenaline): A hormone that helps regulate blood pressure and mood.
- Pancreas: Located in the abdomen, the pancreas produces hormones that regulate blood sugar
levels. Examples include:
- Insulin: Lowers blood sugar levels.
- Glucagon: Raises blood sugar levels.
- Ovaries (Females): Located in the pelvic region, the ovaries produce estrogen and
progesterone, hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
- Testes (Males): Located in the scrotum, the testes produce testosterone, a hormone that
regulates male sexual development and reproduction.
Disruptions and Diseases:
- Hormonal Imbalances: Imbalances in hormone production or function can lead to various
health issues, including diabetes, thyroid disorders, and infertility.
- Endocrine Diseases: Specific diseases affect the endocrine system, such as Cushing's syndrome,
Addison's disease, and hypothyroidism.
The endocrine system is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. Understanding
its complex functions and potential disruptions is crucial for promoting optimal health and
managing related conditions.
