About Endocrine glands
Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Basic understanding of static concepts in Biology.
- The endocrine system is a network of glands and organs located throughout the body. It plays a vital role in controlling and regulating many of the body's functions.
- Endocrine glands are ductless glands of the endocrine system that secrete their products (hormones) directly into the blood.
- Major glands of the endocrine system include the pineal gland, pituitary gland, pancreas, ovaries, testicles, thyroid gland, thymus, parathyroid gland, hypothalamus and adrenal glands.
| S.No. | Endocrine glands | Location | Function |
| 1. | Pituitary gland (Master gland) | Base of the Brain | • Releases various hormones like Human growth hormone • Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (stimulates Thyroxin production) • Prolactin (stimulate milk production post child-birth) |
| 2. | Hypothalamus | Brain | • Links the nervous system to the endocrine system via the Pituitary gland. • Regulates body temperature; hunger, thirst. • Releases Dopamine (feel good hormone), Oxytocin (role in parturition, lactation) and Vasopressin (regulation of water and sodium homeostasis). |
| 3. | Pineal gland | Brain | • Releases Melatonin • Melatonin plays a key role in sleep cycle (regulates circadian rhythm). |
| 4. | Thyroid gland | Neck | • Releases Thyroxine. • Thyroxine controls metabolism, energy production, body temperature and growth. |
| 5. | Parathyroid gland | Neck (behind the Thyroid) | • Releases Parathyroid hormone that regulates calcium, phosphorus and magnesium in the bones and blood. |
| 6. | Thymus | Upper Chest | • Development of Immune system cells (T-cells) |
| 7. | Adrenal gland | Above the Kidneys | • Produces Adrenaline (activates specific physiological reactions or fight-or-flight response) • Produces Cortisol (or stress hormone) which helps the body in responding to stress by increasing heart rate, elevating blood sugar levels etc. |
| 8. | Testes | In the scrotum (only in Males) | • Releases Testosterone • Testosterone promotes growth and development of the male reproductive structures; Increased skeletal and muscular growth; Enlargement of the larynx and voice changes; growth of body hair |
| 9. | Ovaries | In the pelvic region (only in Females) | • Releases Estrogen and Progesterone. • Estrogen promotes development of the breasts; distribution of fat in the hips & legs; maturation of reproductive organs (uterus and vagina). • Progesterone causes the uterine lining to thicken in preparation for pregnancy. |
| 10. | Pancreas | Behind the Stomach | • To control blood sugar levels by producing Insulin and Glucagon. |