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Organ Systems

By , About.com Guide

Human Lungs and Rib

Human Lungs and Rib

Image: Renjith Krishnan / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
The human body is made up of several organ systems that work together as one unit. Ten major organ systems of the body are listed below, along with several organs that are associated with each system.

Organ Systems

    Digestive System: breaks down food polymers into smaller molecules to provide energy for the body.
    • Primary organs: mouth, stomach, intestines, rectum
    • Accessory organs: teeth, tongue, liver, pancreas
    Endocrine System: helps to maintain growth and homeostasis within the body.
    • pituitary gland, pineal gland, hypothalamus, ovaries, testes, thyroid gland
    Integumentary System: protects the internal structures of the body from damage, prevents dehydration, stores fat and produces vitamines and hormones.
    • skin, nails, hair, sweat glands
    Respiratory System: provides the body with oxygen via gas exchange between air from the outside environment and gases in the blood.
    • lungs, nose, trachea, bronchi
    Skeletal System: supports and protects the body while giving it shape and form.
    • bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, cartilage
    Urinary/Excretory Systems: removes wastes and maintains water balance in the body.
    • kidneys, urinary bladder, urethra, ureters

It is important to keep in mind that these systems don't just exist as individual units. The final product of these cooperating systems is one unit called the body. Each system depends on the others, either directly or indirectly, to keep the body functioning normally.

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