Endocrine System

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The endocrine system controls and coordinates some functions and working of some parts of the human body. By releasing hormones or chemical messengers from glands, the endocrine system is able to give instructions to target cells and organs for certain functions to be carried out. The human body has over 50 different hormones: some are responsible for regulating various important substances in the body, while others control the way in which the body grows and develops.

Gland

Hormone

Function

Pituitary

Produces many different hormones.

To stimulates other glands to produce their own hormones.

Thyroid

Thyroxine

To regulate growth and the rate that food is broken down.

Pancreas

Produces hormones such as insulin and glucagons.

To control sugar levels in the body.

Adrenal

Adrenaline

To controls heart and breathing rates.

Ovaries

Oestrogen and progesterone

To controls the onset of puberty, menstruation and ovulation in women.

Testes

Testosterone

To controls the onset of puberty and regulate the production of sperm in men.

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