Fundamental Signaling and Neuroendocrine Pathways

Notes

Hormones and Endocrine System Key Concepts • Hormones and other signalling molecules bind to target receptors, triggering specific response pathways • Feedback regulation and coordination with the nervous system are common in endocrine systems • Endocrine glands respond to diverse stimuli in regulating homeostasis, development, and behaviour Overview: The Body’s Long-Distance Regulators • Animal hormones are chemical signals secreted into the circulatory system, and communicate regulatory messages within the body • Hormones reach all parts of the body, but only target cells have receptors for that hormone The Body’s Long-Distance Regulators • Two systems coordinate communication throughout the body • Endocrine system that secretes hormones that coordinate slower but longer-acting responses (akin to snail mail), including • reproduction • development • energy metabolism • growth • behavior • Nervous system conveys high-speed electrical signals along specialized cells called neurons through dedicated pathways (akin to text message) • These signals regulate other cells including other neurons, muscle cells and endocrine cells Hormones and other signaling molecules bind to target recep...