eksokriinse

Eksokriinne refers to glands or secretions that are released outside the body or into a body cavity. This is in contrast to endocrine glands, which secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream. Eksokriinne secretions typically serve protective or functional purposes on the surface of the body or within internal lumens.

Examples of eksokriinne glands include sweat glands, which release sweat onto the skin's surface to regulate body temperature, and salivary glands, which produce saliva that aids in digestion and lubricates food. The digestive system is also replete with eksokriinne glands; for instance, the pancreas secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine, and glands in the stomach lining produce acid and mucus. Mammary glands, responsible for producing milk, are also considered eksokriinne.

The secretions of eksokriinne glands are transported through ducts. These ducts can be simple, leading directly to the surface or cavity, or complex, with branching structures. The composition and function of eksokriinne secretions vary widely depending on the specific gland and its role in the body. They can include enzymes, mucus, sweat, oil, milk, and other substances essential for maintaining homeostasis, facilitating physiological processes, or providing defense against external factors.