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 |
