A gland is a functional unit of cells that works together to create and release a product into a duct or directly to the bloodstream Two principal types of glands exist exocrine and endocrine The key difference between the two types is that, whereas exocrine glands secrete substances into a ductal system to an epithelial surface, endocrine glands secrete products Endocrine System • Function of the Endocrine System –to secrete hormones –chemical messengers that coordinate and direct target cells and organs • ENDOCRINE GLANDS – Secrete hormones directly into bloodstream – Ductless • EXOCRINE GLANDS –secrete substances through a duct (sweat, salivary, lacrimal andDifferences Between an Endocrine and an Exocrine Gland Have no ducts/ are ductless Secrete hormones Pour their secretions directly into the bloodstream to reach target organs Have ducts Secrete enzymes or digestive juices Pour their secretion directly into
Physiology Of Endocrine System And Related Metabolic Disorders Springerlink
