Endocrine System
Biology · अंतःस्रावी तंत्र
📋Quick Overview
The endocrine system consists of ductless glands that secrete hormones directly into blood. Pituitary = Master gland (controls other glands). Thyroid = metabolism (T3, T4; deficiency=goitre). Parathyroid = calcium regulation. Adrenal = fight/flight (adrenaline). Pancreas = insulin (diabetes if deficient). Gonads = sex hormones (Testes→testosterone, Ovaries→estrogen). Pineal = melatonin (sleep). Thymus = immunity (T-cells).
📖Glands & Hormones
| Gland | Hormone | Function | Deficiency Disease |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pituitary (Master gland) | Growth Hormone (GH) | Growth of body | Dwarfism (less) / Gigantism (excess) |
| Thyroid | Thyroxine (T4) | Metabolism, growth | Goitre (swelling in neck), Cretinism (children) |
| Parathyroid | Parathormone (PTH) | Calcium regulation in blood | Hypocalcemia (low calcium) |
| Adrenal | Adrenaline (Epinephrine) | Fight or flight response, heart rate | Addisons disease |
| Pancreas (Islets of Langerhans) | Insulin | Lowers blood sugar (glucose→glycogen) | Diabetes mellitus |
| Testes (male) | Testosterone | Male sex characteristics | — |
| Ovaries (female) | Estrogen, Progesterone | Female sex characteristics, pregnancy | — |
| Pineal | Melatonin | Sleep-wake cycle | Sleep disorders |