Different Organs and Glands of the Endocrine System:
- Hypothalamus - located in the lower central part of the brain, and is key to maintain metabolism and body temperature. The hypothalamus also secretes a hormone called somatostatin, which makes the pituitary gland stop releasing growth hormones.
- Pituitary Gland - located at the base of the hypothalamus. It produces Growth, Thyroid-stimulating, Adrenocorticotropin, Luteinizing, Prolactin, Oxytocin, and Antiduretic hormones,
- Thyroid Gland - located in the lower front part of the neck. It produces Thyroid hormones that regulate the body's metabolism, maintains blood pressure, heart rate, and digestion.
- Parathyroid Glands - 2 pairs of small glands in the thyroid gland. They release the parathyroid hormone, which regulates calcium levels in the blood and bone metabolism.
- Adrenal Glands - located on top of each kidney and made up of the adrenal cortex and medulla. It produces hormones called Corticosteroids, which regulate metabolism and the immune system, and Catecholamines, which help the body cope with physical and emotional stress.
- Pineal Body - located in the middle of the brain. It makes the hormone melatonin, which regulates the wake-sleep cycle of the body.
- Reproductive Glands:
- Males - located in the testes and secrete Androgens, which affect many male characteristics as well as sperm production.
- Females - located in the ovaries, and secrete estrogen, progesterone and eggs. These hormones control the development of female characteristics, and are involved in reproductive functions.
- Pancreas - located by the back of the abdomen. It secretes digestive enzymes, insulin, and glucagon, which all regulate the level of glucose in the blood.