Hormones and the Endocrine System

Filed Under: Diabetes and the Endocrine System, Infertility

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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