Anatomy of the endocrine organs

Hypothalamus

Collection of nuclei that link the neurosensory system to the endocrine system, involved in functions such as thermoregulation, osmoregulation, and satiety.

Pituitary gland

An endocrine gland divided into anterior and posterior parts, intricately connected to the hypothalamus to regulate the secretion of hormones.

Anterior pituitary gland hormones

The anterior pituitary synthesizes and secretes various hormones, which are controlled by the hypothalamus.

Posterior pituitary gland

Region that stores and secretes hormones synthesized in the hypothalamus, such as Vasopressin (ADH) and Oxytocin.

Vasopressin (ADH)

Hormone that stimulates water uptake in kidneys, regulated by osmotic pressure of blood.

Oxytocin

Hormone that aids in milk production and bonding after childbirth.

Thyroid gland

Endocrine gland that regulates metabolism and produces hormones like thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).

Parathyroid glands

Small glands behind the thyroid that regulate calcium levels in the blood via parathyroid hormone (PTH).

Islets of Langerhans

Clusters of endocrine cells in the pancreas that produce hormones involved in sugar and salt homeostasis.

Gastrin

Hormone involved in gastric motility and gastric acid secretion.

Glucagon

Hormone that raises blood glucose levels by promoting glucose release into the bloodstream.

Insulin

Hormone that facilitates the absorption of glucose into fat, liver, and muscle cells.

Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS)

A hormonal system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance by controlling sodium retention and vascular resistance.

Erythropoietin

Hormone secreted by the kidneys that promotes the formation of red blood cells in the bone marrow.

Suprarenal glands

Also known as adrenal glands, they are involved in producing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.