Overview of Endocrine System
- Endocrine System Introduction
- Overview of Endocrine System
- General Chemical Structure and Function of the Endocrine System
- Measurement of Hormones
- Regulation of Endocrine Systems
- Pathogenesis of Endocrine Disease
- Principles of Therapy of Endocrine Disease
The endocrine system encompasses a group of tissues that release hormones into circulation for travel to distant targets. An endocrine tissue is typically a ductless gland (eg, pituitary, thyroid) that releases its hormones into capillaries permeating the tissue. These glands are richly supplied with blood. However, nontypical endocrine tissues also contribute important hormones to circulation, eg, secretion of atrial natriuretic peptide from the heart, erythropoietin from the kidney, insulin-like growth factor from the liver, and leptin from fat. New hormones continue to be discovered. Some act only on a single tissue, whereas others have effects on virtually all cells of the body. The effects of hormones on their targets are varied—from enhancement of nutrient uptake to altering cell division and differentiation, among many others.
- Endocrine System Introduction
- Overview of Endocrine System
- General Chemical Structure and Function of the Endocrine System
- Measurement of Hormones
- Regulation of Endocrine Systems
- Pathogenesis of Endocrine Disease
- Principles of Therapy of Endocrine Disease
Also of Interest
Test your knowledge
Which of the following serum biochemical abnormalities is most likely to occur in a dog with primary hypothyroidism?