p. 293. The endocrine system
- Ian KayIan KayAssociate Head of School, School of Healthcare Science, Manchester Metropolitan University
- and Gethin EvansGethin EvansSenior Lecturer, School of Healthcare Science, Manchester Metropolitan University
Abstract
This chapter reviews how the endocrine system, together with the nervous system, controls the multitude of physiological processes in the body and ensures that homeostasis is achieved. It discusses the formation of hormones from derivatives of amino acids, peptides and proteins, and lipids. It also analyszes the chemical nature of the process by which anan individual hormone determinesing where its receptor is located. The chapter clarifies how the overall plasma levels are maintained at the appropriate level proportion by negative feedback mechanisms, although hormone secretion may display circadian rhythms. It mentions the pituitary gland. This is described as the master endocrine gland by virtue of the number of physiological processes it controls.
