GLANDS

Define a gland

A gland is a group of cells specialized to perform a specific function, such as secretion or excretion.

Describe exocrine and endocrine glands

Exocrine glands are those that secrete their products through ducts or tubes, whereas endocrine glands release their products directly into the bloodstream.

Classify exocrine glands

Exocrine glands can be classified into:

• Sweat glands: produce sweat for thermoregulation
• Mucous glands: produce mucus for protection and lubrication
• Salivary glands: produce saliva for digestion
• Pancreatic glands: produce digestive enzymes and hormones
• Sebaceous glands: produce sebum for skin lubrication

Classify endocrine glands

Endocrine glands can be classified into:

• Hypothalamic glands: regulate hormone secretion
• Pituitary glands: regulate various bodily functions through hormone secretion
• Thyroid glands: regulate metabolism through hormone secretion
• Adrenal glands: produce hormones for stress response and electrolyte balance
• Pineal glands: produce melatonin for circadian rhythm regulation

Describe the functions of exocrine and endocrine glands

• Exocrine glands:

  • Sweat glands → sweat → thermoregulation
  • Mucous glands → mucus → protection and lubrication
  • Salivary glands → saliva → digestion
  • Pancreatic glands → digestive enzymes and hormones → digestion and blood sugar regulation
  • Sebaceous glands → sebum → skin lubrication

• Endocrine glands:

  • Hypothalamic glands → hormone secretion → regulation of bodily functions
  • Pituitary glands → hormone secretion → regulation of various bodily functions
  • Thyroid glands → hormone secretion → metabolism regulation
  • Adrenal glands → hormone secretion → stress response and electrolyte balance
  • Pineal glands → melatonin → circadian rhythm regulation