There are at least 43 glands in the human body. These glands are broadly categorized into endocrine and exocrine glands, based on how they secrete their products. It's important to note that the exact number can vary slightly depending on the counting methodology and inclusion of smaller or less well-defined glandular structures.
Types of Glands and Examples
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Endocrine Glands: These glands secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream. Examples include:
- Pineal gland: Located in the brain. Source: Wikipedia List of glands
- Pituitary gland: Also located in the brain, it's often called the "master gland" due to its influence on other endocrine glands.
- Thyroid gland: Located in the neck, it regulates metabolism.
- Parathyroid glands: Small glands located near the thyroid.
- Adrenal glands: Located on top of the kidneys, they produce stress hormones like cortisol.
- Pancreas: While also involved in digestion (exocrine function), it also produces insulin and glucagon (endocrine function).
- Ovaries (female): Produce estrogen and progesterone.
- Testes (male): Produce testosterone.
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Exocrine Glands: These glands secrete their products through ducts onto epithelial surfaces. Examples include:
- Salivary glands: Produce saliva.
- Sweat glands: Produce sweat for cooling. Source: The evolution of eccrine sweat glands
- Sebaceous glands: Produce oil for the skin. Source: Wikipedia List of glands
- Prostate gland: Surrounds the urethra in males. Source: Wikipedia List of glands
- Pyloric glands: Found in the stomach. Source: Wikipedia List of glands
- Mammary glands: Produce milk. Source: Connexin43 in mesenchymal lineage cells
Many other smaller glands exist throughout the body, often embedded within other organs. A precise list naming all 43 is difficult to compile definitively due to variations in classification and counting. However, the examples provided offer a representative overview of the major glandular systems. Source: How many glands are in the human body?
