Körtelorgan

Körtelorgan, also known as glandular organs, are specialized structures within multicellular organisms that are responsible for synthesizing and secreting substances such as hormones, enzymes, or mucus. These organs are composed of glandular cells, which are epithelial cells that have differentiated to perform secretory functions. Körtelorgan can be found in a wide variety of tissues and systems throughout the body.

The secretions of körtelorgan can be released in different ways. Exocrine glands secrete their products through ducts onto an epithelial surface, such as the skin or the lining of the digestive tract. Examples include sweat glands, salivary glands, and the glands in the stomach. Endocrine glands, on the other hand, secrete their products directly into the bloodstream or the surrounding interstitial fluid. These secreted substances, often hormones, then travel to target cells or organs elsewhere in the body to regulate various physiological processes. The thyroid gland and the adrenal glands are examples of endocrine körtelorgan.

There are also organs that contain both exocrine and endocrine components. The pancreas, for instance, produces digestive enzymes that are secreted into the small intestine (exocrine function) and hormones like insulin and glucagon that are released into the bloodstream to regulate blood sugar levels (endocrine function). The specific nature and function of the secretions vary greatly depending on the type and location of the körtelorgan, playing vital roles in digestion, metabolism, reproduction, immunity, and many other essential bodily functions.