Review: Introduction to the Endocrine System

Here is what we have learned from Introduction to the Endocrine System:

• Chemical messengers from the endocrine system help regulate body activities. Their effect is of longer duration and is more generalized than that of the nervous system.
• Neurons are the nerve cells that transmit impulses. Supporting cells are neuroglia.
• Endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the blood, which transports the hormones through the body.
• Cells in a target tissue have receptor sites for specific hormones.
• Many hormones are regulated by a negative feedback mechanism; some are controlled by other hormones; and others are affected by direct nerve stimulation.
• Even though the endocrine glands are scattered throughout the body, they are still considered to be one system because they have similar functions, similar mechanisms of influence, and many important interrelationships.
• Major glands include: pituitary gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid gland, adrenal (suprarenal) gland, pancreas, gonads (testes and ovaries), pineal gland, and other endocrine glands.