endokriinnäärmes

Endokriinnäärmes are ductless glands that produce and secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream. These hormones travel through the body to target cells and organs, where they regulate a wide range of physiological processes. The endocrine system, comprised of these glands, plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis, which is the stable internal environment necessary for life.

Key endokriinnäärmes include the pituitary gland, often called the master gland, which controls many other endocrine glands. The thyroid gland regulates metabolism and energy levels. The adrenal glands produce hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, involved in stress response and metabolism. The pancreas has both exocrine and endocrine functions, with its endocrine portion producing insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar. The gonads, testes in males and ovaries in females, produce sex hormones responsible for reproductive development and function. Other important glands include the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels, and the pineal gland, involved in sleep-wake cycles.

Disruptions in endokriinnäärmes function can lead to various endocrine disorders, such as diabetes, thyroid disease, and growth abnormalities. Understanding the roles of these glands is vital for comprehending overall bodily health and the mechanisms behind many medical conditions.