OVERVIEW OF THE ENDOCRINE SYSTEM: FUNCTIONS, GLANDS, AND THEIR HORMONAL REGULATION
*Tejas R. Raut, Aanand L. Deshmukh, Gajanan M. Jawalkar and Dr. Harigopal S. Sawarkar
ABSTRACT
The endocrine system is a complex network of glands and organs responsible for producing, secreting, and regulating hormones in the body. These hormones act as chemical messengers that influence a wide range of physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, mood, reproduction, and immune function. Major endocrine glands include the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, and gonads (ovaries and testes), as well as specialized tissues such as the hypothalamus. The endocrine system operates in close interaction with the nervous system, maintaining homeostasis and responding to internal and external stimuli. Dysregulation of hormone levels can lead to a variety of disorders, ranging from diabetes and thyroid diseases to reproductive and metabolic disorders. Understanding the intricate functions of the endocrine system is crucial for diagnosing and treating these conditions.
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