Function of glands. Understanding Glands: Types, Functions, and Importance in Human Biology
What are glands and how do they function in the human body. How are glands classified based on their structure and secretion methods. What are the key differences between endocrine and exocrine glands. How do various gland types contribute to essential biological processes.
The Fascinating World of Glands: An Overview
Glands play a crucial role in the human body, serving as specialized organs responsible for producing and secreting substances essential for various biological functions. These remarkable structures are found throughout the body and come in different types, each with its unique purpose and mechanism of action.
Glands are typically defined as groups of cells that synthesize and release specific substances, such as hormones, enzymes, or other secretions. These secretions can be released into the bloodstream, onto the body’s surface, or into cavities and organs, depending on the gland’s type and function.
Classification of Glands: Understanding the Structure and Function
Glands are classified based on two primary criteria: their structure and their method of secretion. This classification system helps us understand the diverse nature of glands and their specific roles in maintaining bodily functions.
Structural Classification of Glands
Based on their structure, glands can be categorized into two main types:
- Unicellular glands: These are single-celled glands, such as goblet cells found in the intestinal lining.
- Multicellular glands: These are composed of multiple cells and are further divided into three subtypes:
- Simple glands: Have a single duct
- Compound glands: Have branched ducts
- Complex glands: Have specialized secretory units
Functional Classification of Glands
Based on their method of secretion, glands are classified into two main categories:
- Exocrine glands: These glands secrete their products through ducts onto epithelial surfaces or into cavities.
- Endocrine glands: These glands release their secretions (hormones) directly into the bloodstream.
Exocrine Glands: The Body’s External Secretion System
Exocrine glands are remarkable structures that play a vital role in maintaining various bodily functions by secreting substances onto epithelial surfaces or into cavities. These glands are characterized by their use of ducts to transport their secretions to specific target areas.
Types of Exocrine Glands
Exocrine glands can be further classified based on the nature of their secretions:
- Mucous glands: Produce mucus, a slippery substance that lubricates and protects surfaces
- Serous glands: Secrete a watery, protein-rich fluid
- Mixed glands: Produce both mucous and serous secretions
- Sebaceous glands: Secrete sebum, an oily substance that lubricates and waterproofs the skin and hair
Functions of Exocrine Glands
Exocrine glands serve numerous essential functions in the body, including:
- Digestion: Salivary glands and pancreas produce enzymes that aid in breaking down food
- Lubrication: Mucous glands in various organs provide lubrication to reduce friction
- Protection: Sweat glands help regulate body temperature and eliminate toxins
- Waterproofing: Sebaceous glands produce oils that keep skin and hair waterproof
Endocrine Glands: The Body’s Internal Messaging System
Endocrine glands are specialized structures that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream, acting as the body’s chemical messengers. These glands play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes and maintaining homeostasis.
Major Endocrine Glands and Their Functions
The human body contains several important endocrine glands, each responsible for producing specific hormones:
- Pituitary gland: Often called the “master gland,” it produces hormones that control other endocrine glands
- Thyroid gland: Regulates metabolism, growth, and development
- Parathyroid glands: Control calcium levels in the blood and bones
- Adrenal glands: Produce stress hormones and regulate metabolism
- Pancreas: Secretes insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar levels
- Gonads (ovaries and testes): Produce sex hormones essential for reproduction and secondary sexual characteristics
The Endocrine System’s Role in Homeostasis
The endocrine system works in concert with the nervous system to maintain homeostasis, the body’s state of internal balance. Hormones secreted by endocrine glands help regulate:
- Metabolism and energy balance
- Growth and development
- Reproductive functions
- Stress response
- Mood and behavior
- Sleep-wake cycles
The Unique Case of Mixed Glands: Combining Exocrine and Endocrine Functions
Some glands in the human body possess both exocrine and endocrine functions, making them truly remarkable multitaskers. These mixed glands demonstrate the complexity and efficiency of the human body’s glandular system.
Examples of Mixed Glands
Two prominent examples of mixed glands in the human body are:
- Pancreas: Functions as both an exocrine gland (producing digestive enzymes) and an endocrine gland (secreting insulin and glucagon)
- Testes: Produce sperm (exocrine function) and testosterone (endocrine function)
These mixed glands demonstrate the body’s ability to optimize organ function by combining multiple roles within a single structure.
Glandular Disorders: When the System Malfunctions
While glands typically function seamlessly to maintain bodily processes, various disorders can affect their performance, leading to significant health issues. Understanding these disorders is crucial for early detection and proper treatment.
Common Glandular Disorders
Some frequently encountered glandular disorders include:
- Hypothyroidism: Underactive thyroid gland
- Hyperthyroidism: Overactive thyroid gland
- Diabetes mellitus: Impaired insulin production or utilization
- Addison’s disease: Insufficient production of adrenal hormones
- Cushing’s syndrome: Excessive production of cortisol
- Gigantism and acromegaly: Overproduction of growth hormone
These disorders can result from various factors, including autoimmune conditions, tumors, or genetic predispositions. Proper diagnosis and management are essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.
The Role of Glands in Human Evolution and Adaptation
Glands have played a significant role in human evolution and our ability to adapt to diverse environments. The development and modification of various glandular systems have contributed to our species’ survival and success.
Evolutionary Significance of Glands
Several glandular adaptations have been crucial in human evolution:
- Sweat glands: Enhanced thermoregulation, allowing for efficient cooling during physical exertion
- Mammary glands: Provide nutrition for offspring, supporting extended periods of infant care
- Sebaceous glands: Produce waterproofing oils, protecting skin from environmental challenges
- Endocrine system: Facilitated complex physiological responses to environmental stressors
These glandular adaptations have enabled humans to thrive in various climates and conditions, contributing to our species’ global distribution and success.
Cutting-Edge Research: The Future of Glandular Science
As our understanding of glands and their functions continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new frontiers in glandular science. These advancements promise to revolutionize our approach to treating glandular disorders and harnessing the power of the body’s secretory systems.
Emerging Areas of Glandular Research
Some exciting areas of current and future research include:
- Bioengineered glands: Creating artificial glands for transplantation or hormone replacement therapy
- Gland-on-a-chip technology: Developing microfluidic devices that mimic glandular function for drug testing and research
- Targeted hormone therapy: Designing more precise and effective treatments for endocrine disorders
- Glandular stem cell research: Exploring the potential of stem cells to regenerate or repair damaged glands
- Gland-gut microbiome interactions: Investigating the relationship between glandular function and the gut microbiome
These research areas hold immense potential for improving our understanding of glandular function and developing innovative treatments for glandular disorders.
In conclusion, glands are essential components of the human body, playing crucial roles in maintaining homeostasis, facilitating communication between organs, and supporting various physiological processes. From the exocrine glands that secrete substances onto surfaces to the endocrine glands that release hormones into the bloodstream, these specialized structures are fundamental to our health and well-being. As research in glandular science continues to advance, we can look forward to new insights and innovative treatments that will further our understanding of these remarkable biological systems.
The Structure and Function of the Cutaneous Glands in Helix aspersa | Journal of Cell Science
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JOURNAL ARTICLE|
01 June 1961
MARY CAMPION
Author and article information
Online ISSN: 1477-9137
Print ISSN: 0021-9533
Copyright © 1961 by the Company of Biologists Ltd.
1961
J Cell Sci (1961) s3-102 (58): 195–216.
https://doi.org/10.1242/jcs.s3-102.58.195
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MARY CAMPION; The Structure and Function of the Cutaneous Glands in Helix aspersa.
J Cell Sci 1 June 1961; s3-102 (58): 195–216. doi: https://doi.org/10.1242/jcs.s3-102.58.195
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The glands discharging ‘slime’ on to the surface of the mantle collar and foot of Helix aspersa have been investigated histologically and histochemically on chemically fixed and frozen-dried material.
All the glands are unicellular; they lie in the connective tissue and discharge by pores passing between the epidermal cells; some are club-shaped, others are polygonal with a distinct and usually long duct. At least 8 different kinds of gland are found: 4 extruding various kinds of mucus, one protein, one calcium carbonate granules, one a pigmented secretion containing a flavone, and one releasing fatglobules.
The histology of the mantle collar is very similar to that of the dorsal and lateral surfaces of the foot except that the glands in the mantle are usually larger.
All kinds of secretion are extruded from these parts. The glands of the sole of the foot are mostly of a distinct kind and produce mucus combined with protein.
The mechanism of discharge is discussed: some of the gland cells are enclosed in a network of muscle-fibres which are thought to be concerned in the removal of the secretion, in other cases no fibres have been found and it seems likely that changes in pressure in the haemocoel are involved.
The composition of the slime changes from colourless and viscous to yellow and watery when the animal is irritated. It is usually slightly alkaline, is not distasteful to man, and does not inhibit the growth of micro-organisms. The mucous component acts as a lubricant, and on the sole for adhesion. The calcium carbonate granules and the protein may be concerned in defence, while the flavone is a waste-product varying with the amount of green food eaten.
The epiphragm is formed by the secretion of part of the mantle collar and is probably dissolved away by a protein-splitting enzyme which has been demonstrated in the slime.
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Glands, Types, classification and functions(Anatomy Topic)
Glands, Types, classification and functions(Anatomy Topic)
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what is gland? what are the types of glands? classification of glands according to structure,and according to function. functions of exocrine and endocrine glands.
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Glands, Types, classification and functions(Anatomy Topic)
- GLANDS, TYPES AND
CLASSIFICATION & FUNCTIONS
SWATILEKHA DAS
(RN,MSN) - DEFINITION OF GLAND
A gland is a group of cells in an animal’s body
that synthesizes substances (such as hormones)
for release into the bloodstream (endocrine
gland) or into cavities inside the body or its
outer surface (exocrine gland).
- TYPES OF GLANDS
The secretary parts and ducts of a gland are
derived from epithelium. Depending on the
method of transportation of its secretion it can be
classified as exocrine and endocrine gland.
i. Exocrine glands
ii. Endocrine glands - i. Exocrine glands: those glands which require
ducts for the passage of their secretions are
known as exocrine glands e.g. parotid glands. - Types of exocrine glands and their functions-
• Salivary gland: In the buccal cavity secrete saliva. This saliva
has many functions.
• Pancreas: Secretes enzyme amylase, trypsin, and lipase.
These enzymes digest carbohydrates, proteins, and fats
respectively.
• Sperm: Sperms produce Hyaluronidase enzyme by which
they swim in the uterine tissue to reach ova. The
other application of this enzyme is to help the drug reach
inner most tissues of the body.
• Sweat glands: secrete sweat which acts to regulate body
temperature and also excretion.
• Sebaceous gland: secrete sebum in the skin and the ear.
• Lachrymal glands: In eye secrete water to moisten the eye. - ii. Endocrine glands: those glands which pour
their secretions directly into blood are known as
endocrine glands or ductless glands e.g. thyroid
gland.
These glands often secrete hormones which play
an important role in maintaining homeostasis.
The pineal gland, thymus gland, pituitary
gland, thyroid gland, and the two adrenal
glands are all endocrine glands. - ENDOCRINE GLANDS IN HUMAN BODY
- A. CLASSIFICATION OF GLANDS
ACCORDING TO THE STRUCTURE
1. Simple glands : are those glands where ducts are not
branched. They can be
a. Tubular: where secretary part is tubule like.
b. Coiled tubular: where secretary part is tubular and
coiled.
c. Branched tubular: where secretary part is tubular and
branched.
d. Acinar: where single main duct is there and secretary
part is sac like.
e. Branched acinar: where secretary part is sac like and
branched.
f. Alveolar: where secretary part is flask shaped. - 2. Compound glands: are those glands where
ducts are branched. They can be:
a. Branched tubular: duct is branched and
secretary part is tubular.
b. Branched acinar: duct is branched and
secretary part is sac like.
c. Branched tubuloacinar: duct is branched and
some secretary parts are tubular while others are
sac like. - B. CLASSIFICATION OF GLANDS
ACCORDING TO THE FUNCTION
i. Merocrine gland: when secretions are
released by exocytosis. No part of the cell is
lost in secretion e.g. sweat gland. - ii. Apocrine gland: when apical
part of the cell disintegrates to
release its secretions e.g.
sebaceous gland. - iii. Holocrine gland: when
the entire cell
disintegrates to release
its secretions e.g.
mammary gland(breast).
Compound glands: are those glands whereAdvertisement
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When choosing where to perform a Parathyroid Function Assessment in Krasnoyarsk and other cities in Russia, do not forget that the cost, methods and terms of performing studies in regional medical offices may differ
Blood test for hormones – Function of the parathyroid glands near the house
Paracelsus Medical Center
Parathyroid hormone (Parathyroid hormone, Parathyrin, PTH, Parathyroid hormone, PTH)
To pay
Description
820 ₽
Calcitonin (Calcitonin)
To pay
Description
990 ₽
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is produced by the parathyroid glands, located in pairs on the back surface of each of the lobes of the thyroid gland.
Intact PTH (a whole molecule of the hormone) consists of 84 amino acids, has a short half-life (about four minutes), and is the main biologically active form of the hormone. Its N- and C-terminal fragments have a longer period of existence, their activity and metabolism are being studied.
PTH plays an important role in the regulation of phosphorus-calcium metabolism and maintains a stable concentration of calcium and phosphorus in the extracellular fluid. The level of PTH is closely related to the amount of calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, magnesium in the body, the regulation of its secretion is carried out according to the feedback principle. With a decrease in the concentration of calcium in the blood (hypocalcemia), the release of PTH by the parathyroid glands increases, and with an increase (hypercalcemia), on the contrary, it decreases. These mechanisms are aimed at maintaining a stable level of calcium in the blood. An increase in PTH promotes osteoclast activation, bone resorption and calcium release from bones, enhances calcium absorption from the intestine, delays calcium excretion by the kidneys, and inhibits reabsorption of phosphorus.
The antagonist of PTH is the hormone calcitonin secreted by the C-cells of the thyroid gland. Normally, when the normal concentration of calcium in the blood is reached, the production of PTH decreases.
With pathology and excessive synthesis of PTH (hyperparathyroidism), hypercalcemia, hyperphosphaturia, generalized osteoporosis, vascular calcification, damage to the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract develop. Insufficient secretion of PTH (hypoparathyroidism) is accompanied by hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia, which can lead to convulsions, tetany.
It is important to simultaneously assess the level of free, or ionized, calcium in the blood and PTH, taking into account clinical manifestations and the results of other laboratory and instrumental studies, this allows differential diagnosis of very similar pathological conditions and the development of the correct treatment tactics.
For an examination in our multidisciplinary clinic “Paracelsus” in Yekaterinburg at an affordable price, you can make an appointment with us online or by phone +7 (343) 272-03-03.
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Dear patients!
Multidisciplinary Clinic and Maternity Hospital “Paracelsus” informs you, according to the Letter of the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation to the Federal Tax Service dated March 25, 2022.
N BS-4-11 / 3605, that subparagraph 3 of paragraph 1 of Article 219 of the Tax Code of the Russian Federation provides for the taxpayer’s right to receive a social tax deduction in the amount paid by him in the tax period for medical services provided by medical organizations engaged in medical activities , him, his spouse, parents, children (including adopted children) under the age of 18, wards under the age of 18 (in accordance with the list of medical services approved by the Government of the Russian Federation).
Joint order of the Ministry of Taxation of Russia and the Ministry of Health of Russia of July 25, 2001 N 289 / BG-3-04 / 256 (hereinafter – the order of July 25, 2001) approved the form of the Certificate of payment for medical services for submission to the tax authorities of the Russian Federation (hereinafter – the Certificate payment for medical services).
This certificate certifies the fact of receiving a medical service and its payment through the cash desk of a healthcare institution at the expense of the taxpayer.