•The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland in the neck, just below the larynx (voice box). It produces hormones essential for regulating metabolism and influencing various physiological processes.
Hormones Produced by the Thyroid Gland
1. Thyroxine (T4): The primary thyroid hormone that influences metabolism, energy production, and body temperature.
2. Triiodothyronine (T3): A more potent form of thyroid hormone that also regulates metabolism and energy balance.
3. Calcitonin:Regulates calcium levels in the blood by promoting its deposition in bone tissue.
Functions of Thyroid Gland
1.Metabolic Regulation: T3 and T4 control the rate of metabolism, affecting energy production and utilization.
2.Temperature Regulation: Thyroid hormones influence body temperature.
3.Growth and Development: Essential for normal growth and development, particularly in infancy and childhood.
4.Calcium Homeostasis: Calcitonin helps regulate calcium levels in the blood by promoting its deposition in bone.
Parathyroid Gland
•The parathyroid glands are small, pea-sized glands near or within the thyroid gland. Despite their small size, these glands play a crucial role in calcium homeostasis.
Hormones Produced by the Parathyroid Glands
1.Parathyroid Hormone (PTH): Regulates calcium levels in the blood by influencing its release from bones, absorption in the intestines, and reabsorption in the kidneys.
Functions of the Parathyroid Glands
1.Calcium Homeostasis: PTH acts to increase calcium levels in the blood by promoting its release from bone, absorption in the intestines, and reabsorption in the kidneys.
2.Phosphate Regulation: PTH also influences phosphate levels in the blood by reducing its reabsorption in the kidneys.
