Endocrine System
The Endocrine System
The adrenal glands are located directly atop each kidney. There are two portions to the adrenal gland. The inner portion, the adrenal medulla, is responsible for releasing catecholamines. Epinephrine is the most common of these, but is more commonly known as adrenaline. The outer portion, the adrenal cortex, releases steroids, or hormones derived from cholesterol. The secretions of the adrenal glands are controlled by the region of the brain known as the hypothalamus.
The hypothalamus is mainly responsible for linking the endocrine system to the nervous system via the pituitary gland. The hypothalamus is located directly underneath the thalamus, just above the stem of the brain. The hypothalamus creates and controls the release of neurohormones, which in turn control the pituitary glands hormone release. One other major thing controlled by the hypothalamus is sexual desire. This organ is responsive to light (for circadian rhythm), steroids, and invading microorganisms, which its response to is raising core body temperature (fever).
The gonads, or the reproductive organs, are composed of the ovaries and the testes.
The ovaries are the primary female reproductive organ. Each ovary is a solid, oval-shaped organ about the size and shape of an almond. Located in the ovarian foccae, one is located on each side of the uterus. These organs are mainly under control of the hormone known as the Follicle-stimulating hormone. These hormones are responsible for the menstrual cycle.
The testes are the primary reproductive organ of the male. A small, oval shaped organ, the testes are responsible for testosterone, a hormone needed for sperm maturation. Testosterone also controls facial and chest hair growth, and enlarged thyroid cartilage.
The pancreas is necessary for releasing the pancreatic juice, essential to digestion. Located near the duodenum, it releases directly into the intestine via the pancreatic duct....
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