Reproduction and Endocrine System and Homeostasis For Life Sciences Grade 12 Self Study Guide Free Download. The role of the endocrine system is to maintain whole body homeostasis. This is accomplished via the coordination of hormonal signaling pathways that regulate cellular activity in target organs throughout the body
Endocrine System
Your endocrine system is in charge of creating and releasing hormones to maintain countless bodily functions. Endocrine tissues include your pituitary gland, thyroid, pancreas and others. There are several conditions related to endocrine system issues — usually due to a hormone imbalance or problems directly affecting the tissue.
Overview
What is the endocrine system?
Your endocrine system consists of the tissues (mainly glands) that create and release hormones.
Hormones are chemicals that coordinate different functions in your body by carrying messages through your blood to your organs, skin, muscles and other tissues. These signals tell your body what to do and when to do it. Hormones are essential for life and your health.
Function
What is the function of the endocrine system?
The main function of your endocrine system is to release hormones into your blood while continuously monitoring the levels. Hormones deliver their messages by locking into the cells they target so they can relay the message. You have more than 50 different hormones, and they affect nearly all aspects of your health — directly or indirectly. Some examples include:
- Metabolism.
- Homeostasis (constant internal balance), such as blood pressure and blood sugar regulation, fluid (water) and electrolyte balance and body temperature.
- Growth and development.
- Sexual function.
- Reproduction.
- Sleep-wake cycle.
- Mood.
Very small amounts of hormones can trigger significant responses and changes in your body. If your body has too little or too much of a hormone, it affects your health. This often causes noticeable symptoms.
