Endocrinology
Hormones and the Endocrine System
Consider the following hormones and their role in the workings of the endocrine system:
| Where the Hormone is Produced | Hormone(s) Secreted | Hormone Function |
| Adrenal Glands | Aldosterone | Regulates salt and water balance |
| Adrenal Glands | Corticosteroid | Controls key functions in the body; acts as an anti-inflammatory; maintains blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and muscle strength; regulates salt and water balance |
| Pituitary Gland | Antidiuretic hormone (vasopressin) | Affects water retention in kidneys; controls blood pressure |
| Pituitary Gland | Corticotropin | Controls production and secretion of adrenal cortex hormones |
| Pituitary Gland | Growth hormone | Affects growth and development; stimulates protein production |
| Pituitary Gland | Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) | Controls reproductive functioning and sexual characteristics |
| Pituitary Gland | Oxytocin | Stimulates contraction of uterus and milk ducts in the breast |
| Pituitary Gland | Prolactin | Initiates and maintains milk production in breasts |
| Pituitary Gland | Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) | Stimulates the production and secretion of thyroid hormones |
| Kidneys | Renin and Angiotensin | Controls blood pressure |
| Kidneys | Erythropoietin | Affects red blood cell (RBC) production |
| Pancreas | Glucagon | Raises blood sugar levels |
| Pancreas | Insulin | Lowers blood sugar levels; stimulates metabolism of glucose, protein, and fat |
| Ovaries | Estrogen | Affects development of female sexual characteristics and reproductive development |
| Ovaries | Progesterone | Stimulates the lining of the uterus for fertilization; prepares the breasts for milk production |
| Parathyroid Glands | Parathyroid hormone | Affects bone formation and excretion of calcium and phosphorus |
| Thyroid Gland | Thyroid hormone | Affects growth, maturation, and metabolism |
Click here to view the
Online Resources of Endocrinology
