Endocrine Glands 2

Thyroid gland

Located at the base of the neck; has 2 halves and is shaped like a butterfly.

Calcitonin

A hormone that reduces calcium levels in the blood.

Thyroid hormones

Regulate metabolism, body heat production, cellular oxygen usage, and maintain blood pressure.

Parathyroid glands

Glands attached to the back of the thyroid that regulate calcium levels in the blood.

Parathyroid hormone

Hormone that elevates calcium levels by bringing calcium out of the bones into the bloodstream.

Adrenal glands

Glands located atop each kidney with outer adrenal cortex and inner adrenal medulla.

Epinephrine

A hormone from the adrenal medulla that regulates the fight or flight response during emergencies.

Norepinephrine

A hormone from the adrenal medulla that increases heart rate and blood pressure in stressful situations.

Glucocorticoids

Hormones from the adrenal cortex that regulate ion levels for quick energy.

Pancreas

An organ with both exocrine and endocrine functions; produces hormones that regulate blood glucose.

Islets of Langerhans

Clusters of cells in the pancreas that produce hormones like insulin and glucagon.

Insulin

A hormone produced by beta cells in the pancreas that lowers blood glucose levels.

Glucagon

A hormone produced by alpha cells in the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels.

Thymus gland

A small gland near the sternum responsible for the development of the immune system.

Thymopoietin

A hormone produced by the thymus involved in immune system development.

Thymic factor

A hormone from the thymus that plays a role in the development of the immune system.

Thymosin

A hormone produced by the thymus that assists in the immune system's development.