The
endocrine system is a
system of
ductless glands that is responsible for manufacturing and secreting
hormones into the
blood.
Endocrine are different from
exocrine glands, which
secrete substances through
ducts to the outside of the body or a body cavity.
Hormones regulate many physiological
functions in the body including maintaining
homeostasis. Unlike the
nervous system, the
function of the
endocrine system regulates activities that occur over longer periods of time (seconds to days).
Together, the
glands of the
endocrine system regulate many body
functions:
- Energy metabolism
- Water balance
- Electrolyte (salt) balance
- Growth and development
- Red blood cell (RBC) production
- Circulation
- Digestion
- Absorption of nutrients in the digestive system
Except where otherwise noted, content on this site is licensed under
1 - Anatomy and Physiology Basics