ENDOCRINE Gland

Controls most of the long-term bodily processes such as fluid balance, metabolism, sexual development, mood, and growth.

Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream. When the hormone messages reach their target cells, they unlock specific responses within that cell.

EXOCRINE Gland

They deliver hormones or other substances directly onto the skin's surface or into the intestinal tract through ducts. This method is like hand-delivering the message to the target cells.

THYROID

Located in the neck and regulates metabolism.

Produces hormones including thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate the body's metabolic rate. For instance, when these hormones reach target cells in the heart, they increase the heart rate and contractility.

PARATHYROID

Glands (4) embedded within the thyroid and regulate the levels of calcium in the blood.

When blood calcium levels are low, PTH signals to the cells in the bones to release calcium into the bloodstream.

PITUITARY

The tiny "master" gland at the base of the brain which controls the other endocrine glands.

Hormones regulate growth, reproduction, and metabolism.

HYPOTHALAMUS

Takes in sensory information from the nervous system and signals the pituitary gland to suppress or secrete pituitary hormones.

PANCREAS

Both endocrine and exocrine glands.

Endocrine Function: Produces insulin and glucagon which work together to maintain blood sugar and cellular fuel supplies.

Exocrine function: Secretes digestive enzymes into the duodenum for digesting foods.

ADRENAL GLANDS

These glands produce several hormones, including cortisol, a stress hormone. When cortisol reaches its target cells, it promotes the breakdown of proteins and fats to provide the body with the energy it needs to respond to stress.

Prostaglandins

Contraction and relaxation of smooth muscle.

Dilation and constriction of blood vessels.

Control of blood pressure.

Initiation of the inflammation process, including platelet aggregation, to control bleeding.