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Why do we take such deep breaths when we are afraid? Why do specific changes occur in our bodies as we reach puberty? Have you ever considered what mechanism or system is in charge of all of this? The Human Endocrine System is the answer. The nervous system is crucial in the regulation and coordination of the body. However, the action of this mechanism does not reach every cell in the body.
Our bodies have two types of glands: endocrine and exocrine. Glands are organs that are required for life to exist and are only concerned with the generation of chemicals that serve certain functions. The compounds that are released are referred to as ‘hormones.’
What is gland?
A gland, cell, or tissue that takes certain compounds from the blood, changes or concentrates them, and then either releases or eliminates them for further use. A gland is often composed of cuboidal or columnar epithelium lying on a basement membrane and surrounded by a plexus, or meshwork, of blood vessels. Endocrine, or ductless, glands (such as the pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal) produce hormones directly into the circulation rather than through ducts. Exocrine glands (such as salivary, sweat, and digestive) release their contents via ducts.
Endocrine Glands
Endocrine glands are ductless, and their secretions (hormones) are released directly into the bloodstream. These are the foundation of the endocrine system, which is largely dependent on the proper quantity of hormones produced throughout the body.
The pituitary gland, pancreas, adrenal glands, thyroid gland, and parathyroid glands are all examples of endocrine glands.
It can be of two types:
- Holocrine glands- These are glands that exclusively contain endocrine cells and produce hormones. Pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands are a few examples.
- Heterocrine glands- These are glands that include both endocrine and exocrine cells that can produce hormones and enzymes. The pancreas, testes, and ovaries are among examples.
a. The Thyroid Gland
This gland is situated at the front of the neck. Thyroid hormone is produced by a two-lobed endocrine gland found in the neck. The Thyroid isthmus is a small band of tissue that connects the bottom two-thirds of the thyroid lobes. The thyroid gland’s functional unit is the spherical thyroid follicle, which is associated with occasional parafollicular cells and follicular cells and is surrounded by a lumen containing colloid. Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3) are two hormones produced by thyroid gland.
b. Parathyroid
This is a collection of four tiny glands located beneath your thyroid. They contribute to bone health. The glands regulate your calcium and phosphorus levels.
c. Thymus
This gland produces white blood cells called T-lymphocytes, which fight illness and are essential for the development of a child’s immune system. After puberty, the thymus begins to shrink.
d. Pancreas
Pancreas is involved in digestive and endocrine systems both. Pancreas also produces digestive enzymes that help in the food breakdown. It is also responsible for the production of the hormones insulin and glucagon. These guarantee that you have the appropriate quantity of sugar in your circulation and cells.
Exocrine glands
Exocrine glands are glands that release secretions and transport them to the target organ through ducts. These are known as duct glands. The liver, salivary glands, stomach glands, and other organs are examples.
The exocrine glands’ structure is separated into two parts:
- Ductal portion – The ductal portion has a tubular form. It is a single, thick, cuboidal cell wall that aids in secretion transport. The duct can be both branching and unbranched. It can also be found in the form of a basic coiled structure.
- Glandular portion – The glandular part is responsible for producing the secreted material. It is a cell cluster that is either circular or elongated. The glandular portion’s cells are dependent on the chemical released. Serous cells, for example, release proteins, whereas mucous cells secrete fluids.
a. Mammary glands
Mammary glands are found in females’ breasts and are responsible for milk production. These are composed of lobules and include ducts that transport milk to the ducts. They are around 15-20 in number. Puberty is when breast growth begins.
b. Sweat glands
Sweat glands are tiny tubular structures that come in three varieties.
- Eccrine
- Eccrine Apocrine
- Holocrine
Perspiration glands create sweat, which is essential for regulating body temperature.
c. Lacrimal glands
Lacrimal glands are tear-shaped glands that release lacrimal fluid, water, and proteins on the surfaces of the eye’s cornea. They can also be found in the conjunctiva. These glands regulate tears, clean, and lubricate the eyes.
What is the Difference between Endocrine and Exocrine Glands?
S.NO | Endocrine | Exocrine |
1 | Endocrine glands lack a duct system and hence discharge their secretions or hormones straight into the circulation. | Exocrine glands are glands with ducts that allow cells to discharge their products into the ducts and release them onto the surface of target cells or organs. |
2 | Endocrine glands are ductless glands that directly release hormones into the circulation. | Exocrine glands have one or more ducts by which their secretions are transported. |
3 | Hormones are endocrine gland secretions. | Exocrine gland secretions include enzymes, mucins, ions, water, and other substances. |
4 | The endocrine glands’ target locations are located apart from the gland. | The gland’s target areas are near to the exocrine gland. |
5 | Because secretions must be delivered to the site of action, endocrine glands respond slowly. | Exocrine glands often respond quickly since their secretions are discharged directly into the target organs. |
6 | Endocrine glands are classified into three types: trabecular, follicular, and disseminated. | Exocrine glands are classified into several categories, including unicellular and multicellular exocrine glands, merocrine, apocrine, and holocrine glands, among others. |
7 | Endocrine glands are responsible for the general structure, growth, and development of the target organs. | Exocrine glands monitor the target organs’ short-term activity and functioning. |
8 | The adrenal gland, pituitary gland, ovaries, and thyroid gland are all examples of endocrine glands. | Sweat glands, liver, pancreatic acini, salivary glands, mammary glands, and other exocrine glands are examples. |
Conclusion
Endocrine glands are ductless, and their secretions are released directly into the bloodstream. The pituitary gland, pancreas, adrenal glands, thyroid gland, and parathyroid glands are all examples of endocrine glands. The Thyroid Gland This gland is situated at the front of the neck. Exocrine glands are glands that release secretions and transport them to the target organ through ducts. The liver, salivary glands, stomach glands, and other organs are examples. Exocrine glands are glands with ducts that allow cells to discharge their products into the ducts and release them onto the surface of target cells or organs.
