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Endocrine Glands

Definition

These are ductless glands that produce and release hormones directly into the bloodstream. They play key roles in regulating mood, growth and development, tissue function, metabolism etc.

Analogy

Imagine endocrine glands as secret agents who deliver important messages (hormones) directly where they need to go (the bloodstream). They don't use any middlemen or messengers - they get right down to business!

Related terms

Hypothalamus: Part of the brain responsible for controlling certain metabolic processes and other activities related to the autonomic nervous system. It synthesizes and secretes neurohormones often called releasing hormones because they function by stimulating other endocrine glands to release hormones.

Pituitary Gland: Often referred to as 'master gland' because it controls several other hormone-secreting glands including thyroid gland, adrenal gland etc., ensuring all these different systems work together smoothly.

Thyroid Gland: An endocrine gland in the neck that secretes hormones regulating growth and development through the rate of metabolism.