Endocrine Glands

Front 1

Pituitary (also called: hypophysis)

Back 1

Brain--"Master gland"--controls many of the functions of the other endocrine glands. Major hormones produced include a variety of "stimulating hormones: (for example, TSH- thyroid-stimulating hormone). The pituitary gland also produces growth hormone (GH).

Front 2

Hypothalamus

Back 2

Brain--Secretes "releasing hormones" that cause the pituitary gland to secrete "stimulating hormones." Also produces oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone. Oxytocin stimulates uterine contraction during labor and release of breast milk; antidiuretic hormone reduces the production of urine in the kidnes and prevents water loss.

Front 3

Pineal

Back 3

Brain--Melatonin (influences the sleep-wake cycle).

Front 4

Thyroid

Back 4

in front of the neck, on either side of trachea--Thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), which regulate metabolism. When the thyroid gland produces too much T3 and T4, hyperthyroidism results. When the thyroid gland produces too little T3 and T4 hypothyroidism occurs.

Front 5

Parathyroid glands (4)

Back 5

Attached to each lateral lobe of thyroid--Parathormone (PTH), which helps to maintain a normal blood calcium level.

Front 6

Thymus

Back 6

Upper part of chest, in front of aorta--Thymosine, which assists in the development of immune responses. The thymus gland is fairly good-sized at birth and continues to grow until puberty-at which point it begins to shrink and is replaced by fibrotic tissue.

Front 7

Adrenal glands (2)

Back 7

On the top of the kidneys--Adrenal cortex (outer part)--secretes corticosteroids, which have widespread effects throughout the body-especially anti-inflammatory effects.
Adrenal medulla (inner part)--secretes epinephrine and norepinephrine. These hormones help the boyd react to stressful situations by stiulating the heartbeat and raising blood pressure ("fight or flight" response).

Front 8

Pancreas

Back 8

Behind the stomach--Insulin and glucagon, which help to regulate blood sugar levels.
Insulin lowers blood sugar levels, and glucagon raises blood sugar levels.

Front 9

Ovaries (2)

Back 9

On each side of uterus--Estrogen and progesterone.
Estrogen controls the development of female sex characteristics and the reproductive system.
Progesterone prepares the lining of the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg.

Front 10

Testes (2)

Back 10

Scrotum--Testosterone. This hormone controls the debelopment fo male sex characteristics and the reproductive system.