15.1: Introduction to the Endocrine System

Human Anatomy · LibreTexts

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    From LibreTexts, under CC BY 4.0, as the source states it; its equations are written in TeX, which the PDF shows typeset. This page at LibreTexts.

    Chapter Learning Objectives:

    After studying this chapter, you will be able to:

    • Identify the contributions of the endocrine system to homeostasis
    • Discuss the chemical composition of hormones and the mechanisms of hormone action
    • Summarize the site of production, regulation, and effects of the hormones of the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, and pineal glands
    • Discuss the hormonal regulation of the reproductive system
    • Explain the role of the pancreatic endocrine cells in the regulation of blood glucose
    • Identify the hormones released by the heart, kidneys, and other organs with secondary endocrine functions
    • Discuss several common diseases associated with endocrine system dysfunction
    • Discuss the embryonic development of, and the effects of aging on, the endocrine system

    You may never have thought of it this way, but when you send a text message to two friends to meet you at the dining hall at six, you’re sending digital signals that (you hope) will affect their behavior—even though they are some distance away. Similarly, certain cells send chemical signals to other cells in the body that influence their behavior. This long-distance intercellular communication, coordination, and control is critical for homeostasis, and it is the fundamental function of the endocrine system.

    Young girl catching a falling leaf from a tree in the Fall.
    Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\): A Child Catches a Falling Leaf. Hormones of the endocrine system coordinate and control growth, metabolism, temperature regulation, the stress response, reproduction, and many other functions. Plants use similar mechanisms to control functions too, such as when a deciduous tree's leaves begin to change color and fall off in response to environmental signals. (Image credit: "Child Catching Leaf" by OpenStax is licensed under CC BY 4.0)

    Contributors and Attributions

    This page titled 15.1: Introduction to the Endocrine System was last modified on Mon, 11 Aug 2025 19:40:24 GMT and is shared under a CC BY 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Whitney Menefee, Julie Jenks, Chiara Mazzasette, and Kim-Leiloni Nguyen (ASCCC Open Educational Resources Initiative) .