Final answer:
The relationships among endocrine system components include hormones, endocrine glands, target cells, and target cell receptors. Hormones are secreted by glands and travel through the bloodstream to bind to receptors on target cells, eliciting a response.
Step-by-step explanation:
The endocrine system consists of glands that secrete hormones, which are chemical messengers. Hormones are released into the bloodstream and travel to target cells, which have specific receptors for the hormones. The hormones bind to their target cell receptors and elicit a response in the target cells.
For example, the adrenal glands produce hormones like epinephrine and norepinephrine that regulate responses to stress. These hormones travel through the bloodstream and bind to receptors on target cells such as heart cells, causing an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.