Explanatory Note

Neuroendocrine System:

(a) Additional definition

I. NEUROENDOCRINE SYSTEMS can also be defined as the sets of neurons, glands and non-
endocrine tissues, and the neurochemicals, hormones, and humoral signals they produce and
receive, that function in an integrated manner to collectively regulate a physiological or
behavioral state.

II. The neuroendocrine system is also regarded as a complex network of glands, hormones, and
nerve cells that help regulate the body's internal environment. It includes the nervous system and
the endocrine system, which play crucial roles in maintaining homeostasis, the stable and
balanced internal environment of the body.

Homeostasis - is the process by which the body maintains a stable internal environment despite
external changes or stressors. This includes regulating body temperature, maintaining proper pH
levels in body fluids, and controlling essential nutrients and minerals concentrations. This is
important for the normal functioning of the body and to prevent illnesses.

(b) Why is it called neuroendocrine system?

II. The NEUROENDOCRINE SYSTEM, is a system in the body that involves both the nervous
system and the endocrine system. The nervous system is responsible for sending and receiving
signals in the form of “nerve impulses”, while the “endocrine system” is responsible for
producing and releasing hormones. Therefore, the neuroendocrine system consists of both nerve
impulses and hormones. "Nerve impulses and hormones," accurately describes the components
of the neuroendocrine system.
What is the role of the Hypothalamus?

Your hypothalamus is an important region of the brain that plays a central role in integrating the
nervous and endocrine systems. It receives signals from various parts of the body about the
body's internal environment, and in response, produces hormones or triggers the release of
hormones from other glands. These hormones help regulate essential physiological processes like
body temperature, hunger, thirst, and stress response.

(B). Glands

I. Exocrine Gland - produce and secrete substances onto an epithelial surface by way of ducts.
One of the best examples of secretions includes; Sweat Saliva, Digestive Enzymes, and Mucus.
Exocrine Gland examples: Sweat Glands, Salivary Glands, Mammary Glands, and Glands of the
Digestive System (e.g. pancreas, which also has endocrine functions, and liver).

Best example: Sweat glands: Your sweat glands create and secrete sweat.

II. Endocrine Glands – Is responsible in producing hormones and release them directly into the
bloodstream so they can travel to tissues and organs all over the body. The Endocrine hormones
help control mood, growth and development, the way our organs work, metabolism, and
reproduction. The endocrine system regulates how much of each hormone is released.

Why are hormones so important?

They play a large part in many of our daily functions as well as critical life milestones.
Hormones affect everything from blood sugar to blood pressure, growth and fertility, sex drive,
metabolism, and even sleep. Their influence goes as far as changing the way we think and act
day to day.
Exocrine vs Endocrine Glands

Anatomically, these glands are broadly classified into two types based on the presence or
absence of ducts. Mode of Secretion: Exocrine Glands use ducts whilst Endocrine are Ductless.
And in terms of substances being secreted: Exocrine glands secretes (Sweat, Saliva, Digestive
Enzymes, Mucus and other substances). While on the other hand, Endocrine thereby secretes
hormones.

Exocrine Gland secretions act locally at the side of release whereas Endocrine gland hormones
act on distant target organs within the human body.
It is important to understand/comprehend the differences on how various bodily functions are
regulated and maintained.