This key facts covers Key Glands and Their Hormones within Human Endocrine System for GCSE Biology. Topic 4: Human Endocrine System It is section 3 of 11 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Key Glands and Their Hormones
| Gland | Hormone(s) | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Pituitary | Many (FSH, LH, etc.) | "Master gland" — controls other glands |
| Thyroid | Thyroxine | Controls metabolic rate |
| Pancreas | Insulin, glucagon | Controls blood glucose |
| Adrenal | Adrenaline | Fight or flight response |
| Ovaries | Oestrogen, progesterone | Female reproduction |
| Testes | Testosterone | Male reproduction |
Practice questions for Human Endocrine System
Which gland is known as the 'master gland' because it controls other endocrine glands?
Compare how the nervous system and the endocrine system coordinate responses in the body. [3 marks]
Quick recall flashcards
What is a hormone?
A hormone is a chemical messenger produced by a gland, released into the blood, and carried to a target organ where it causes a response.
What is the endocrine system?
The endocrine system is a network of glands that produce and release hormones directly into the bloodstream. Hormones travel to target organs to trigger a response.