Major Endocrine Glands and Their Functions

A comprehensive set of vocabulary flashcards covering the major endocrine glands, their anatomical locations, the hormones they secrete, and their primary functions in the human body.

Pituitary Gland

Located at the base of the brain just below the hypothalamus; excretes Growth hormone (GH), TSH, ACTH, FSH, LH, Prolactin, ADH, and Oxytocin; controls other endocrine glands and regulates growth, reproduction, water balance, and milk production.

Pineal Gland

Located near the center of the brain; excretes Melatonin; regulates the sleep-wake cycle known as the circadian rhythm.

Thyroid Gland

Located in the front of the neck below the larynx; excretes T3 (Triiodothyronine), T4 (Thyroxine), and Calcitonin; regulates metabolism, growth, energy, and uses Calcitonin to help lower blood calcium levels.

Parathyroid Glands

Usually four small glands located behind the thyroid gland; excrete Parathyroid hormone (PTH); regulate calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood.

Thymus Gland

Located in the upper chest behind the sternum (breastbone); excretes Thymosin; promotes the development and maturation of T-cells in the immune system.

Adrenal Glands

Located on top of each kidney; excrete Cortisol, Aldosterone, Adrenaline (Epinephrine), and Noradrenaline (Norepinephrine); regulate stress response, blood pressure, salt and water balance, and metabolism.

Pancreas

Located behind the stomach; excretes Insulin, Glucagon, and Somatostatin; regulates blood sugar levels.

Ovaries

Located on each side of the lower abdomen in the pelvic cavity of females; excrete Estrogen and Progesterone; regulate female reproductive functions, the menstrual cycle, and pregnancy.

Testes

Located inside the scrotum outside the abdominal cavity in males; excrete Testosterone; regulate male reproductive functions and the development of male secondary sex characteristics.

Placenta

Located inside the uterus during pregnancy; excretes hCG, Estrogen, Progesterone, and Human Placental Lactogen (hPL); supports fetal development and maintains pregnancy.

Calcitonin

A hormone excreted by the thyroid gland that helps lower blood calcium levels.

Thymosin

A hormone excreted by the thymus gland that promotes the development and maturation of T-cells for the immune system.

Melatonin

A hormone excreted by the pineal gland that regulates the sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm).