Definition The thymus is a specialized primary lymphoid organ of the immune system. It is essential for the development and maturation of T lymphocytes (T cells), which are crucial for adaptive immunity. The thymus is most active during childhood and gradually shrinks and becomes less active with age. Structure of …
Pineal Gland: Definition, Structure, Functions, and Disorders
Definition The pineal gland is a small, pea-shaped endocrine gland located in the brain. It is primarily responsible for the production and regulation of melatonin, a hormone that influences sleep-wake cycles and seasonal biological rhythms. Structure of Pineal Gland The pineal gland is situated near the center of the brain, …
Pancreas: Definition, Structure, Functions, and Disorders
Definition The pancreas is a vital glandular organ in the human body that plays a crucial role in both the digestive and endocrine systems. It is involved in producing enzymes that aid digestion and hormones that regulate blood sugar levels. Structure of Pancreas The pancreas is located in the upper …
Adrenal Gland: Definition, Structure, Functions, and Disorders
Definition of Adrenal Gland The adrenal glands, also known as suprarenal glands, are small, triangular-shaped endocrine glands located on top of each kidney. They play a crucial role in producing hormones that regulate metabolism, immune response, blood pressure, stress response, and other vital functions. Â Detailed Anatomy of the Adrenal Gland …
Parathyroid Gland: Definition, Structure, Functions, and Disorders
Definition of Parathyroid Gland The parathyroid glands are small endocrine glands located in the neck, usually positioned behind the thyroid gland. These glands play a critical role in regulating calcium homeostasis in the blood through the secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Â Structure of the Parathyroid Gland Location and Structure Position: …
Pituitary Gland: Definition, Structure, Functions, and Disorders
The pituitary gland, often referred to as the “master gland,” plays a crucial role in regulating a wide array of bodily functions by controlling the activity of various other endocrine glands. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the pituitary gland, covering its definition, structure, functions, and associated disorders. Definition The pituitary …
Endocrine system: Hormones, Classification, mechanism, and functions
The endocrine system is a complex network of glands that secrete hormones to regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, growth, reproduction, and homeostasis. Hormones are chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream to target organs or tissues, where they elicit specific physiological responses. Here is a detailed note on the …