Physiology 2130 Lecture Notes - Lecture 13: Follicle-Stimulating Hormone, Hypophyseal Portal System, Thyroid

• School: Western University
• Department: Physiology
• Course: Physiology 2130
• Professor: Christine Bell

Document Summary

Endocrine system and nervous system work in conjunction to maintain negative feedback (hence homeostasis) in the body. The endocrine system consists glands that secrete chemicals into the blood which then travel throughout the body until they reach their target site and initiate their effect. Functions include maintenance of internal environment, adaption to stress, control of growth and metabolism, and control of reproduction. Actions are slower compared to the nervous system but its effects last longer and more widespread throughout the body. While nervous system directly controls organs, the endocrine system indirectly affects organs by secreting chemicals. Endocrine gland- a group of specialized cells that synthesize, store, and release chemicals called hormones into blood. The hormone is released and circulates throughout the body via blood stream to specific target cells that have receptors for the hormone. Hormones can either stimulate or inhibit the activity of the cell.