DELVING INTO ENDOCRINE GLANDS AND THEIR HORMONES
The endocrine system is a complex network of glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream to regulate various bodily functions. These glands play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis, growth, development, metabolism, and reproduction. Here is a comprehensive list of the major endocrine glands and their associated hormones:
1. Hypothalamus:
Hormones:
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).
- Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH).
- Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH).
- Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH).
- Prolactin-inhibiting hormone (PIH).
2. Pituitary Gland:
a) Anterior Lobe Hormones:
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
- Luteinizing hormone (LH).
- Growth hormone (GH).
- Prolactin.
b) Posterior Lobe Hormones:
- Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) or vasopressin.
- Oxytocin.
3. Pineal Gland:
- Hormone: Melatonin.
4. Thyroid Gland:
Hormones:
- Thyroxine (T4).
- Triiodothyronine (T3).
- Calcitonin.
5. Parathyroid Glands:
- Hormone: Parathyroid hormone (PTH).
6. Thymus:
Hormones:
- Thymosin.
- Thymopoietin.
7. Adrenal Glands:
a) Adrenal Cortex Hormones:
- Cortisol.
- Aldosterone.
- Androgens.
b) Adrenal Medulla Hormones:
- Epinephrine.
- Norepinephrine.
8. Pancreas:
Hormones:
- Insulin.
- Glucagon.
- Somatostatin.
- Pancreatic polypeptide.
9. Ovaries (in females):
Hormones:
- Estrogen.
- Progesterone.
10. Testes (in males):
- Hormone: Testosterone.
These endocrine glands and their respective hormones collectively regulate numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, growth and development, stress response, fluid balance, reproductive functions, and many others.
