The Endocrine System
• What does
the endocrine
system do?
Functions of the Endocrine System
 The endocrine system consists of
groups of organs and tissues that
release chemical messages into the
bloodstream.
 Endocrine tissues that secrete chemical
molecules are called endocrine glands.
Functions of the Endocrine System
(cont.)
A hormone is a chemical that is produced
by an endocrine gland in one part of an
organism and is carried in the
bloodstream to another part of the
organism.
hormone
from Greek hormon, means “that which sets in motion”
Functions of the Endocrine System
(cont.)
The chemical
messages are
usually sent to
more cells and
last longer than
the messages
sent by the
nervous system.
Lesson 3
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