Endocrine

Endocrine System

A diverse group of ductless glands that maintains homeostasis of multiple physiological variables.

Exocrine Glands

Glands that rely on ducts to release substances such as enzymes, tears, sweat, and milk.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of stable internal conditions within the body.

Hormones

Chemicals released into the bloodstream by endocrine glands that typically act on distant targets.

Hypothalamus

A neuroendocrine organ that communicates with the pituitary gland and produces inhibiting and releasing hormones.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

Hormone produced by the hypothalamus that causes water retention from the kidneys and assists with blood pressure control.

Oxytocin

Hormone produced by the hypothalamus that triggers uterine contraction and milk ejection from the mammary glands.

Pituitary Gland

An endocrine gland made up of anterior and posterior portions that secretes various hormones influencing other tissues.

Tropic Hormones

Hormones produced by the anterior pituitary that influence the functions of other endocrine or exocrine glands.

Thyroid Gland

Endocrine gland located in the anterior-inferior neck that produces hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

Hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands that maintains calcium ion homeostasis.

Thymosin

Hormone secreted by the thymus gland that stimulates the development of T lymphocytes.

Adrenal Cortex

Outer region of the adrenal gland that secretes steroid hormones including mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, and gonadocorticoids.

Insulin

Hormone produced by beta cells in the pancreas that lowers blood glucose levels by triggering uptake of glucose by cells.

Glucagon

Hormone produced by alpha cells in the pancreas that increases blood glucose levels by triggering the release of stored glucose.

Testosterone

Steroid hormone produced by interstitial cells in the testes that promotes sperm production and male secondary sex characteristics.

Estrogen

Steroid hormone produced by the ovaries that plays a role in the development of oocytes and female secondary sex characteristics.

Progesterone

Steroid hormone produced by the ovaries that prepares the body for pregnancy.

Thyroxine (T4)

Hormone produced by the thyroid gland that has 4 iodine molecules and helps regulate metabolic rate.

Calcitonin

Hormone produced by parafollicular cells in the thyroid gland that lowers blood calcium levels.

Glomerulosa, Fasciculata, Reticularis

The three zones of the adrenal cortex, each secreting different types of steroid hormones.