Hormones and the Endocrine System

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Slide 1

The Body’s Long-Distance Regulators

Animal hormones are chemical signals that are secreted into the circulatory system and communicate regulatory messages within the body.

Hormones reach all parts of the body, but only target cells are equipped to respond.

Insect metamorphosis is regulated by hormones.

Slide 2

Two systems coordinate communication throughout the body: the endocrine system and the nervous system.

The endocrine system secretes hormones that coordinate slower but longer-acting responses including reproduction, development, energy metabolism, growth, and behavior.

The nervous system conveys high-speed electrical signals along specialized cells called neurons; these signals regulate other cells.

Slide 3

What role do hormones play in transforming a caterpillar into a butterfly?

Slide 4

Hormones and other signaling molecules bind to target receptors, triggering specific response pathways

Chemical signals bind to receptor proteins on target cells.

Only target cells respond to the signal.

Slide 5

Types of Secreted Signaling Molecules

Secreted chemical signals include

Hormones

Local regulators

Neurotransmitters

Neurohormones

Pheromones

Slide 6

Hormones

Endocrine signals (hormones) are secreted into extracellular fluids and travel via the bloodstream.

Endocrine glands are ductless and secrete hormones directly into surrounding fluid.

Hormones mediate responses to environmental stimuli and regulate growth, development, and reproduction.

Exocrine glands have ducts and secrete substances onto body surfaces or into body cavities (for example, tear ducts).

Slide 7

Intercellular communication by secreted molecules

Blood

vessel

Response

Response

Response

Response

(a) Endocrine signaling

(b) Paracrine signaling

(c) Autocrine signaling

(d) Synaptic signaling

Neuron

Neurosecretory

cell

(e) Neuroendocrine signaling

Blood

vessel

Synapse

Response

Slide 8

Local Regulators = Short Distance Chemical Signals

Local regulators are chemical signals that travel over short distances by diffusion.

Local regulators help regulate blood pressure, nervous system function, and reproduction.