The Endocrine System - Glands and Hormones (OCR A-Level Psychology): Revision Notes

6.2.1 The Endocrine System - Glands and Hormones

The Endocrine System

The Endocrine System is composed of glands that secrete chemicals called hormones directly into the bloodstream

Hormones

Hormones: Chemical messengers that travel to particular organs and have powerful effects.

Important structures in the endocrine system are:

• Pituitary gland: a 'master gland' as it controls the release of hormones from other glands in the body. It secretes several hormones into the blood in response to body conditions
• Pancreas: produces insulin which regulates the blood glucose level
• Thyroid: produces thyroxine which controls the metabolic rate and affects growth
• Adrenal glands: produce adrenaline
• Ovaries: (females): produce oestrogen
• Testes (males): produce testosterone