1. Module 2

Module 2 Introduction

Module 2—The Endocrine System

Introduction

 

In Module 1 you discovered how the body senses changes in your environment and then communicates these changes through the peripheral nervous system to the brain and the spinal cord. In Module 2 you will explore the endocrine system’s chemical mechanisms for detecting and responding to changes in your environment, which are often called stress. You will see how the endocrine system contributes to the maintenance of homeostasis. The module will focus on the major organs of the endocrine system, the hormonal secretions they produce, and their effects on the body.

 

You may or may not know of someone whose endocrine system is not functioning correctly. When the endocrine system does not function properly, the effects on the body can be quite disruptive—even life-threatening. This module will introduce you to Emily, a 30-year-old woman who deals with an endocrine disease that causes an incredible amount of stress on her body and in her everyday life. The disease, and the stress it causes, threatens her life. Emily’s quality of life is totally dependent on controlling healthy homeostasis in her body with the use of medical technologies. Through Emily’s case study, you will explore how the endocrine system communicates chemically with the body to maintain homeostasis when it experiences various stresses.

 

In the Biology 30 Course Introduction, several resources, including The Key and Student Notes and Problems Workbook: Biology 30, were recommended to you for additional support towards your success. Continue to use these resources as you work through Module 2.