What is the endocrine system? Your endocrine system is a network of several glands that create and secrete (release) hormones. A gland is an organ that makes one or more substances, such as hormones, digestive juices, sweat or tears. Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream.

Endocrine tissues include your pituitary gland, thyroid, pancreas and others. There are several conditions related to endocrine system issues — usually due to a hormone imbalance or problems directly affecting the tissue. Your endocrine system consists of the tissues (mainly glands) that create and release hormones. What is the endocrine system?

Microscopically, the functional unit of the thyroid gland is the spherical thyroid follicle, lined with follicular cells (thyrocytes), and occasional parafollicular cells that surround a lumen containing colloid.

Feb 8, 2024 · The thyroid gland is an endocrine organ found in the neck, it is responsible for regulating the body’s metabolic rate via hormones it produces. In this article, we will be looking at its anatomy, its cellular structure, its endocrine physiology and its clinical relevance.

Nov 20, 2024 · The thyroid gland is part of the endocrine system (along with the adrenal glands, hypothalamus, pituitary, ovaries, and testes, and other endocrine organs). The thyroid gland releases hormones into the bloodstream to control your metabolism, which is the primary way your body uses energy.

Oct 28, 2021 · As a component of the endocrine system, the thyroid secretes hormones that control important functions including metabolism, growth, heart rate, and body temperature. Found within thyroid tissue are structures known as parathyroid glands.

May 28, 2024 · The thyroid gland is a vital endocrine (hormone-producing) gland. It plays a major role in the metabolism, growth and development of the human body. It helps to regulate many body functions by constantly releasing a steady amount of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream.

Jun 14, 2023 · The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped, vascular, red-brown endocrine gland situated in the midline of the anterior neck. Under normal circumstances, it extends from the level of the 5th cervical vertebra ( C5 ) to the first thoracic vertebra ( T1 ).

Jan 22, 2025 · The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and development. It is part of the endocrine system and plays a critical role in maintaining the body's metabolic rate, temperature regulation, and energy production.

Thyroid hormones are extremely important and have diverse actions. They act on virtually every cell in the body to alter gene transcription: under- or over-production of these hormones has potent effects. Disorders associated with altered thyroid hormone secretion are common and affect about 5% women and 0.5% men.