Week 6: Endoc rine Sy stem Part 1 Worksheet
What are some of the general functions of the endocrine system?
1. Regulation of Metabolism
2. Maintaining Homeostasis
3. Growth and Development
4. Reproduction
5. Stress Response
6. Blood Pressure Regulation
7. Mineral and Water Balance
8. Immune System Support
What is the difference between primary and secondary endocrine structures? Give examples of each:
Primary Endocrine Glands:
Primary endocrine glands are the major glands in the body that are primarily responsible for producing
and releasing hormones into the bloodstream. These hormones play crucial roles in regulating various
physiological processes. Examples of primary endocrine glands include:
Hypothalamus
Pituitary Gland (Hypophysis
Thyroid Gland
Adrenal Glands
Pancreas
Gonads (Testes and Ovaries
Secondary Endocrine Glands or Tissues:
Secondary endocrine tissues are not primarily considered glands, but they contain cells that also secrete
hormones and contribute to the endocrine system. These tissues are not dedicated solely to hormone
production but still play important roles. Examples of secondary endocrine tissues include:
Adipose (Fat) Tissue
Digestive Tract
Heart
Kidneys
Bone
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, 12, 5:30 PM BIOS252 Week 6 Endocrine System Pt 1
Week 6: Endoc rine Sy stem Part 1 Worksheet
What are the two different classifications of hormones?
1. Endocrine
2. Exocrine
What are the three different ways we control the secretion of hormones?
The three mechanisms of hormonal release are humoral stimuli, hormonal stimuli, and neural
stimuli.
How does the anterior pituitary gland attach to the hypothalamus? How does the posterior pituitar
y?
1. The anterior pituitary gland is not directly connected to the hypothalamusthrough nerve fibers.
Instead, the hypothalamus communicates with the anterior pituitary through a network of
blood vessels known as the hypothalamo-hypophyseal portal system. This system involves a
series of capillaries and veins that connect the hypothalamus and the anterior pituitary.
2. The posterior pituitary gland isdirectly connected to the hypothalamus through nerve fibers.
The hypothalamus produces two important hormones, oxytocin and vasopressin (also called
antidiuretic hormone or ADH). These hormones are synthesized in the hypothalamus and
transported along nerve fibers down to the posterior pituitary, where they are stored until
needed.
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