The Endocrine System (21:00)
After an introductory segment contrasting the human endocrine and nervous systems, this program addresses the complex physiology of the endocrine system. Topics include the endocrine organs and glands; the characteristics of hormones and the process of signal transduction; hormonal regulation of blood glucose and blood calcium levels; the roles of growth hormone, thyroid hormone, testosterone, and estrogen in bodily development; hormones and reproduction; and hormonal involvement in the fight-or-flight response. A viewable/printable instructor’s guide is available online. A Films for the Humanities & Sciences Production. A part of the series The Human Body: How It Works. (21 minutes)
Hormones and How They Work (02:21)
Hormones are classified as steroids--all the sex hormones, cortisol, and a form of Vitamin D--and nonsteroids--proteins such as insulin, and amines such as thyroid hormone. Hormones produce responses in cells.
Endocrine Organs (03:24)
Endocrine organs include the pituitary, pineal gland, thyroid and parathyroid, thymus, pancreas, kidneys, adrenals, ovaries, and testes. The pancreas secretes two hormones that regulate blood glucose levels.
Endocrine System: Reproduction (00:35)
Estrogens produce female characteristics, and testosterone produces male characteristics. Hormones control the production of eggs and sperm, as well as pregnancy, birth, and milk production.