BRAINCAKEHormonal Communication
Revision notes for Hormonal Communication in OCR Biology A (H420). Read the start of any lesson here, then sign in free for the whole lesson, the R.E.C.I.P.E. recall steps and the quiz.
- Endocrine GlandsEndocrine glands are made of groups of cells specialised to secrete chemicals called hormones directly into the blood.
- HormonesHormones are chemical messengers that carry information from one part of the body to another.
- The Adrenal GlandsThe adrenal glands are situated on top of each kidney.
- Adrenal CortexGlucocorticoids These include cortisol which is released in response to stress and low blood sugar concentration.
- Adrenal MedullaThe adrenal medulla produces adrenaline and noradrenaline in response to stimulation by the sympathetic nervous system.
- PancreasThe pancreas, located in the upper abdomen behind the stomach, is both an endocrine adn exocrine gland.
- Blood glucose concentrationThe blood glucose concentration increases after a carbohydrate-rich meal.
- InsulinInsulin is produced by the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas.
- GlucagonInsulin and glucagon are antagonistic hormones.
- Mechanism of Insulin SecretionWhen the blood glucose concentration is normal, ATP-sensitive potassium channels are open.
- Diabetes MellitusThere are two types of diabetes in which the body cannot control the blood glucose concentration.