The endocrine system is a control system of ductless glands that secrete hormones within specific organs. Hormones
act as "messengers," and are carried by the bloodstream to different cells in the body, which interpret these messages
and act on them.
It seems like a far fetched notion or idea that a small chemical can enter the bloodstream and cause an action at a
distant location in the body. Yet this occurs in our bodies everyday of our lives. The ability to maintain homeostasis
and respond to stimuli is largely due to hormones secreted within the body. Without hormones, you could not grow,
maintain a constant temperature, produce offspring, or perform the basic actions and functions that are essential for
life.
The endocrine system provides an electrochemical connection from the hypothalamus of the brain to all the organs
that control the body metabolism, growth and development, and reproduction.
There are two types of hormones secreted in the endocrine system: Steroidal and non-steroidal, (or protein based)
hormones.
The endocrine system regulates its hormones through negative feedback, except in very specific cases like childbirth.
Increases in hormone activity decrease the production of that hormone. The immune system and other factors
contribute as control factors also, altogether maintaining constant levels of hormones.
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