What is endocrine gland and define the function of all endocrine gland in human body?
Dear Student
Endocrine System is a collection of glands which secretes different kinds of hormones which regulate the body functioning. These hormones regulate metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual functions, sleep and reproduction.
The important endocrine glands present in the body are: Pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, thymus, pancreas, ovary, testes etc.
Pituitary gland:- Hormone secreted are Thyroid Stimulating hormone (TSH) and Growth hormone (GH). TSH stimulates the growth & functions of the thyroid gland. GH stimulates the growth & development of body.It is located at the base of the brain.
Thyroid gland:- Hormone secreted is Thyroxine. Thyroxine regulates the body temperature and plays an important role in growth & development. Inability of the body to produce these hormones may result in a disease known as goitre. It is located at the base of the throat.
Pancreas:- Hormone secreted is Insulin. Insulin regulates the blood sugar level. Inability of the body to produce insulin may cause a disease called diabetes. It is located near the liver.
Adrenal gland:-Hormone secreted is adrenaline or epinephrine. Adrenaline helps in the defence of the body in emergency situations. It is located near the kidneys.
Ovaries:-Hormone secreted is oestrogen. Oestrogen controls the secondary sexual characteristics in females such as development of breasts etc. It is located in the pelvic region in females. Found only in females.
Testes:-Hormone secreted is testosterone. Testosterone controls the secondary sexual characteristics in males such as facial hair etc. It is located in the male genital areas. Found only in males.
Pineal Gland
- Location − Dorsal side of forebrain
- Secretes melatonin that regulates 24-hour (diurnal) rhythm of the body such as sleep-wake cycle, body temperature, etc.
- Melatonin also regulates metabolism, pigmentation, and menstrual cycle.
Parathyroid Gland
- Location − Four parathyroid glands are present on back side of thyroid glands.
- Secretes − Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
- Secretion of PTH is regulated by circulating level of calcium ions.
-
PTH is a hypercalcemic hormone. It increases blood calcium levels by
- dissolution/demineralization from bones
- reabsorption of Ca 2+ by renal tubules
- Ca 2+ absorption from digested food
The hypothalamus is a part of forebrain. It contains many areas that control the body temperature, urge for eating and drinking, etc. Some regions of the cerebrum along with hypothalamus are involved in the regulation of sexual behaviour and expression of emotional reactions such as excitement, pleasure, fear, etc.
Regards