Endocrine Glands (secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream):
* Pituitary gland: "Master gland" that controls other endocrine glands. It secretes hormones like growth hormone, prolactin, and thyroid-stimulating hormone.
* Thyroid gland: Located in the neck, it produces thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism.
* Parathyroid glands: Four small glands on the back of the thyroid, they secrete parathyroid hormone which controls calcium levels in the blood.
* Adrenal glands: Two glands located on top of the kidneys, they produce adrenaline, cortisol, and other hormones involved in stress response and metabolism.
* Pancreas: Produces insulin and glucagon, hormones that regulate blood sugar levels.
* Ovaries (females): Produce estrogen and progesterone, hormones involved in female sexual development and reproduction.
* Testes (males): Produce testosterone, the main male sex hormone.
* Pineal gland: Located in the brain, it produces melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles.
* Thymus: Located in the chest, it produces hormones important for immune system development in childhood.
Exocrine Glands (secrete substances through ducts):
* Sweat glands: Secrete sweat to cool the body.
* Sebaceous glands: Produce sebum, an oily substance that lubricates skin and hair.
* Salivary glands: Produce saliva for digestion and lubrication.
* Lacrimal glands: Produce tears to lubricate and protect the eyes.
* Mammary glands (females): Produce milk for breastfeeding.
* Gastric glands: Secrete gastric juice containing digestive enzymes and hydrochloric acid.
* Intestinal glands: Secrete digestive enzymes and mucus.
* Liver: Produces bile, which helps digest fats.
* Pancreas (exocrine function): Produces digestive enzymes.
* Prostate gland (males): Produces fluids that make up a portion of semen.
This list is not exhaustive. There are many other smaller glands in the body that play important roles in different bodily functions.
