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CHAPTER SUMMARY
This chapter begins with an introduction to endocrine glands and a comparison of the roles of the nervous and endocrine
systems. The distinction between endocrine and exocrine glands is described. The mechanism of action of hormones is
explained. The major endocrine characteristics of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, the thyroid gland, the parathyroid
glands, the adrenal glands, the pancreas, the ovaries and testes, the pineal gland, and the thymus are described in detail.
The secretions of other endocrine tissues are summarized. The development of the endocrine system is portrayed. The
effects of aging on the endocrine system are explained. A glossary of key medical terms associated with the endocrine
system is provided. This chapter concludes with a thorough study outline, an excellent self-quiz, critical thinking
questions, and answers to questions that accompany chapter figures.
STUDENT OBJECTIVES
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LECTURE OUTLINE
A. Comparison of Nervous and Endocrine Systems (see Table 23.1): (p. 704)
1. The nervous and endocrine systems together coordinate functions of all body systems.
2. The nervous system controls homeostasis via nerve impulses that trigger release of neurotransmitter molecules
which act on other neurons, muscle cells, or gland cells.
3. The endocrine system controls homeostasis by secreting hormones, i.e., messenger molecules, into the
bloodstream for delivery to virtually all body cells.
4. The nervous and endocrine systems act as a coordinated supersystem called the neuroendocrine system: some
neurons stimulate or inhibit the release of hormones and some hormones promote or inhibit the initiation of
nerve impulses.
5. The nervous system causes muscles to contract and glands to secrete either more or less of their product; the
endocrine system affects virtually all body tissues by altering metabolic activities, regulating growth and
development, and influencing reproductive processes.
6. Nerve impulses typically produce their effects within several milliseconds and the effects are relatively brief in
duration; hormones may take seconds to hours to produce their effects and these effects are generally longer in
duration.
7. Endocrinology is the science concerned with the structure and functions of the endocrine glands and the
diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the endocrine system.
6. Table 23.4 provides a summary of thyroid gland hormones and their actions.
7. The pancreas is innervated by autonomic nerves derived from the celiac and superior mesenteric plexuses;
included are preganglionic vagal, postganglionic sympathetic, and afferent fibers (but note that pancreatic
secretion is controlled primarily by the intestinal hormones secretin and cholecystokinin).
8. Table 23.7 provides a summary of pancreatic hormones and their actions.