The hypothalamus, thymus, heart, kidneys, stomach, small intestine, liver, skin, female ovaries, and male testes are other organs that contain cells with endocrine function. For example, the pancreas contains cells that function in digestion as well as cells that secrete the endocrine hormones like insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood glucose levels.
Some of these glands have both endocrine and non-endocrine functions. The endocrine system includes the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, and pineal glands (see Figure 20.2). The surrounding fluid (interstitial fluid) and the blood vessels then transport the hormones throughout the body. The primary function of the endocrine gland is to secrete hormones directly into the surrounding fluid. The endocrine gland is the major player in this system. The endocrine system consists of cells, tissues, and organs that secrete hormones as a primary or secondary function. The pancreas acts as a endocrine and exocrine gland.
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