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Hormones are chemical substances that help to regulate processes in the body. Hormones are secreted by glands and travel to their target organs in the bloodstream. Several hormones are involved in the female menstrual cycle. Hormones can be used to control human fertility and have advantages and disadvantages.
Hormones and glands
Hormones are chemicals secreted by glands in the body. Different hormones affect different target organs. The bloodstream transports hormones from the glands to the target organs.
Move the mouse over the different glands to see what they do.
Hormones regulate the functions of many cells and organs
The target organ and effects of glands and hormones
| Gland | Hormone | Target organs | Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| adrenal gland | adrenalin | vital organs, eg liver and heart | Prepares body for action - 'fight or flight'. |
| ovary | oestrogen | ovaries, uterus, pituitary gland | Controls puberty and the menstrual cycle in females; stimulates production of LH and suppresses the production of FSH in the pituitary gland. |
| ovary | progesterone | uterus | Maintains the lining of the womb - suppresses FSH production in the pituitary gland. |
| pancreas | insulin | liver | Controls blood sugar levels. |
| pituitary gland | anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) | kidney | Controls blood water level by triggering uptake of water in kidneys. |
| pituitary gland | follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) | ovaries | Triggers egg ripening and oestrogen production in ovaries. |
| pituitary gland | luteinising hormone (LH) | ovaries | Triggers egg release and progesterone production in ovaries. |
| testes | testosterone | male reproductive organs | Controls puberty in males. |
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