AP Psychology 2.6 The Endocrine System

Endocrine System

The body's system of glands that release their secretions, called hormones, directly into the bloodstream

Pancreas

An endocrine gland located near the stomach -produces insulin

Diabetes

A metabolic disease involving the insufficient production of insulin or failure to efficiently use insulin

Homeostasis

The tendency of systems to maintain a steady, internally balanced state

Pituitary Gland

A gland in the brain that produces hormones involved in growth, regulation of the menstral cycle, and childbirth

Pineal Gland

A small gland in the brain that produces hormones melatonin which regulates the sleep-wake cycle

Adrenal Glands

A pair of glands on the kidneys that produce stress-related hormones

Thyroid Gland

A gland in the neck that secretes hormones the promote growth and manage metabolic functions

Gonads

Sex gland (testes in males, ovaries in females)

Germ Cells

Sperm and egg cells from which new life develops