Glands

Glands are organs in the body that secrete substances, such as hormones or enzymes, for use elsewhere in the body or for elimination from the body. There are two main types of glands: exocrine glands and endocrine glands.

Exocrine Glands

Exocrine glands secrete their products into ducts, which then carry the secretions to the surface of the body or into body cavities. Examples of exocrine glands include sweat glands, salivary glands, and mammary glands.

Endocrine Glands

Endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream. These hormones then travel to target organs or tissues where they regulate various physiological processes. Examples of endocrine glands include the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, and adrenal glands.

Study Guide

1. Define glands and explain their function.
2. What are the two main types of glands? Provide examples of each type.
3. How do exocrine glands differ from endocrine glands in terms of how they release their secretions?
4. Discuss the role of hormones secreted by endocrine glands in regulating physiological processes in the body.
5. Compare and contrast exocrine and endocrine glands in terms of their structure and function.