The Methodist Hospital System. Leading Medicine
The Methodist Hospital System. Leading Medicine

Endocrinology

Hormones and the Endocrine System

Consider the following hormones and their role in the workings of the endocrine system:

Where the Hormone is ProducedHormone(s) SecretedHormone Function
Adrenal GlandsAldosteroneRegulates salt and water balance
Adrenal GlandsCorticosteroidControls 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 GlandAntidiuretic hormone (vasopressin)Affects water retention in kidneys; controls blood pressure
Pituitary GlandCorticotropinControls production and secretion of adrenal cortex hormones
Pituitary GlandGrowth hormoneAffects growth and development; stimulates protein production
Pituitary GlandLuteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)Controls reproductive functioning and sexual characteristics
Pituitary GlandOxytocinStimulates contraction of uterus and milk ducts in the breast
Pituitary GlandProlactinInitiates and maintains milk production in breasts
Pituitary GlandThyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)Stimulates the production and secretion of thyroid hormones
KidneysRenin and AngiotensinControls blood pressure
KidneysErythropoietinAffects red blood cell (RBC) production
PancreasGlucagonRaises blood sugar levels
PancreasInsulinLowers blood sugar levels; stimulates metabolism of glucose, protein, and fat
OvariesEstrogenAffects development of female sexual characteristics and reproductive development
OvariesProgesteroneStimulates the lining of the uterus for fertilization; prepares the breasts for milk production
Parathyroid GlandsParathyroid hormoneAffects bone formation and excretion of calcium and phosphorus
Thyroid GlandThyroid hormoneAffects growth, maturation, and metabolism