Major Endocrine Glands and Their Functions
The endocrine system organs work together to maintain homeostasis and regulate various bodily functions. This page provides an overview of the major glands, their locations, and their primary functions.
Pituitary Gland
Located at the base of the brain, the pituitary gland works in conjunction with the hypothalamus to control several bodily functions.
Highlight: The pituitary gland is often referred to as the "master gland" due to its influence on other endocrine glands.
The pituitary gland is divided into two lobes:
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Anterior lobe: Produces and secretes several important hormones, including:
- Growth hormone (GH)
- Prolactin (for breast milk production)
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
- Luteinizing hormone (LH)
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
-
Posterior lobe: Stores and releases hormones produced by the hypothalamus, including:
- Oxytocin (triggers uterine contractions during labor)
- Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) (regulates water reabsorption in the kidneys)
Thyroid Gland
Located inferior to the larynx, the thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones, which are crucial for regulating metabolism, body heat, and bone growth.
Vocabulary: Calcitonin, produced by the thyroid gland, helps regulate blood calcium levels.
Parathyroid Glands
Situated superficial to the thyroid gland, the parathyroid glands produce parathyroid hormone (PTH), which controls calcium and phosphorus levels in the body.
Pancreas
Located inferior to the stomach, the pancreas produces insulin and glucagon, which are essential for controlling blood sugar levels.
Example: Insulin lowers blood sugar levels, while glucagon raises them, working together to maintain proper glucose balance.
Adrenal Glands
Attached superior to the kidneys, the adrenal glands produce several hormones, including:
- Cortisol (regulates stress response and energy utilization)
- Androgens (sex hormones)
- Aldosterone (maintains blood pressure and salt-potassium balance)
- Norepinephrine and epinephrine (involved in the fight-or-flight response)
Definition: Hyperadrenocorticism, also known as Cushing's syndrome, is a condition characterized by excessive cortisol production, leading to symptoms such as a distended abdomen and skin infections.
Reproductive Glands
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Ovaries (in females):
- Located inferior to the abdomen
- Produce estrogen and progesterone
- Function: Produce eggs and regulate female characteristics
-
Testes (in males):
- Located in the scrotum
- Produce testosterone
- Function: Stimulate sperm production and regulate male characteristics
This comprehensive overview of the endocrine system organs and functions provides a clear understanding of how these glands work together to maintain bodily functions and overall health.
