Seven endocrine glands and endocrine system

Endocrine glands – endocrine system

The endocrine system plays a crucial role in our body. It acts as a major communication network between the brain and the body and is responsible for various metabolic functions that promote cellular communication, stimulation, and the release of hormones.

The endocrine system consists of:

• Cells with endocrine activity, such as stomach, intestine, liver, kidneys, heart
• Glands with endocrine function

Endocrine glands and cells with endocrine activity are involved in maintaining homeostasis, affecting sleep and wakefulness, emotional state, blood pressure, physical activity, metabolism, are responsible for balancing hormones and nutrients in the blood, nourishing the brain, libido and other vital body functions.

The neuroendocrine system

The endocrine and nervous systems are structurally, chemically, and functionally closely linked. Virtually all life processes are controlled by the neuroendocrine system. The slightest change in one causes an immediate reaction in the other.

The neuroendocrine system integrates neuronal and hormonal signals and regulates the processes of their interweaving when the body responds to certain changes.

Example: In a stressful, dangerous situation, the pituitary gland orders the adrenal glands to release large amounts of adrenaline so that the person can react quickly and appropriately.