What is Insulin? - Important hormone allows your body to use sugar (glucose) What is Insulin? Written by Amy Hess-Fischl MS, RD, LDN, BC-ADM, CDE Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that allows your body to use sugar (glucose) from carbohydrates in the food that you eat for energy or to store glucose for future use. Insulin helps keeps your blood sugar level from getting too high ( hyperglycemia ) or too low (hypoglycemia). The cells in your body need sugar for energy. However, sugar cannot go into most of your cells directly. After you eat food and your blood sugar level rises, cells in your pancreas (known as beta cells) are signaled to release insulin into your bloodstream. Insulin then attaches to and signals cells to absorb sugar from the bloodstream. Insulin is often described as a “key,” which unlocks the cell to allow sugar to enter the cell and be used for energy. After you eat, cells in your pancreas are signaled to release insulin into the bloodstream.

If you have more sugar in your body than it needs, insulin helps store the sugar in your liver and releases it when your blood sugar level is low or if you need more sugar, such as in between meals or during physical activity. Therefore, insulin helps balance out blood sugar levels and keeps them in a normal range. As blood sugar levels rise, the pancreas secretes more insulin. If your body does not produce enough insulin or your cells are resistant to the effects of insulin, you may develop hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), which can cause long-term complications if the blood sugar levels stay elevated for long periods of time. Insulin Treatment for Diabetes People with type 1 diabetes cannot make insulin because the beta cells in their pancreas are damaged or destroyed. Therefore, these people will need insulin injections to allow their body to process glucose and avoid complications from hyperglycemia. People with type 2 diabetes do not respond well or are resistant to insulin. They may need insulin shots to help them better process sugar and to prevent long-term complications from this disease. Persons with type 2 diabetes may first be treated with oral medications, along with diet and exercise.

Since type 2 diabetes is a progressive condition, the longer someone has it, the more likely they will require insulin to maintain blood sugar levels. Various types of insulin are used to treat diabetes and include: Rapid-acting insulin: It starts working approximately 15 minutes after injection and peaks at approximately 1 hour but continues to work for two to four hours. This is usually taken before a meal and in addition to a long-acting insulin. Short-acting insulin: It starts working approximately 30 minutes after injection and peaks at approximately 2 to 3 hours but will continue to work for three to six hours. It is usually given before a meal and in addition to a long-acting insulin. Intermediate-acting insulin: It starts working approximately 2 to 4 hours after injection and peaks approximately 4 to 12 hours later and continues to work for 12-18 hours. It is usually taken twice a day and in addition to a rapid- or short-acting insulin. Long-acting insulin: It starts working after several hours after injection and works for approximately 24 hours. If necessary, it is often used in combination with rapid- or short-acting insulin.

Insulin can be given by a syringe, injection pen, or an insulin pump that delivers a continuous flow of insulin. Your doctor will work with you to figure out which type of insulin is best for you depending on whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, your blood sugar levels,and your lifestyle. Pancreas Gland - Endocrine System Endocrine System Home > Endocrine System > Endocrine Glands of the Lower Torso > Pancreas Pancreas The pancreas is a glandular organ in the upper abdomen, but really it serves as two glands in one: a digestive exocrine gland and a hormone-producing endocrine gland. Functioning as an exocrine gland, the pancreas excretes enzymes to break down the proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids in food. Functioning as an endocrine gland, the pancreas secretes the hormones insulin and glucagon to control blood sugar levels throughout the day. Both of these diverse functions are vital to the body’s survival....

Move up/down/left/right: Click compass arrows Rotate image: Click and drag in any direction, anywhere in the frame Identify objects: Click on them in the image Anatomy of the Pancreas Gross Anatomy The pancreas is a narrow, 6-inch long gland that lies posterior and inferior to the stomach on the left side of the abdominal cavity. The pancreas extends laterally and superiorly across the abdomen from the curve of the duodenum to the spleen. The head of the pancreas, which connects to the duodenum, is the widest and most medial region of the organ. Extending laterally toward the left, the pancreas narrows slightly to form the body of the pancreas. The tail of the pancreas extends from the body as a narrow, tapered region on the left side of the abdominal cavity near the spleen . Glandular tissue that makes up the pancreas gives it a loose, lumpy structure. The glandular tissue surrounds many small ducts that drain into the central pancreatic duct . The pancreatic duct carries the digestive enzymes produced by endocrine cells to the duodenum. Microscopic Anatomy The pancreas is classified as a heterocrine gland because it contains both endocrine and exocrine glandular tissue.

The exocrine tissue makes up about 99% of the pancreas by weight while endocrine tissue makes up the other 1%. The exocrine tissue is arranged into many small masses known as acini. Acini are small raspberry-like clusters of exocrine cells that surround tiny ducts. The exocrine cells in the acini produce digestive enzymes that are secreted from the cells and enter the ducts. The ducts of many acini connect to form larger and larger ducts until the products of many acini run into the large pancreatic duct. The endocrine portion of the pancreas is made of small bundles of cells called islets of Langerhans. Many capillaries run through each islet to carry hormones to the rest of the body. There are 2 main types of endocrine cells that make up the islets: alpha cells and beta cells. Alpha cells produce the hormone glucagon, which raises blood glucose levels. Beta cells produce the hormone insulin, which lowers blood glucose levels. Physiology of the Pancreas Digestion The exocrine portion of the pancreas plays a major role in the digestion of food. The stomach slowly releases partially digested food into the duodenum as a thick, acidic liquid called chyme.

The acini of the pancreas secrete pancreatic juice to complete the digestion of chyme in the duodenum. Pancreatic juice is a mixture of water, salts, bicarbonate, and many different digestive enzymes. The bicarbonate ions present in pancreatic juice neutralize the acid in chyme to protect the intestinal wall and to create the proper environment for the functioning of pancreatic enzymes. The pancreatic enzymes each specialize in digesting specific compounds found in chyme. Pancreatic amylase breaks large polysaccharides like starches and glycogen into smaller sugars such as maltose, maltotriose, and glucose. Maltase secreted by the small intestine then breaks maltose into the monosaccharide glucose, which the intestines can directly absorb. Trypsin, chymotrypsin, and carboxypeptidase are protein-digesting enzymes that break proteins down into their amino acid subunits. These amino acids can then be absorbed by the intestines. Pancreatic lipase is a lipid-digesting enzyme that breaks large triglyceride molecules into fatty acids and monoglycerides.

Bile released by the gallbladder emulsifies fats to increase the surface area of triglycerides that pancreatic lipase can react with. The fatty acids and monoglycerides produced by pancreatic lipase can be absorbed by the intestines. Ribonuclease and deoxyribonuclease are nucleases, or enzymes that digest nucleic acids. Ribonuclease breaks down molecules of RNA into the sugar ribose and the nitrogenous bases adenine, cytosine, guanine and uracil. Deoxyribonuclease digests DNA molecules into the sugar deoxyribose and the nitrogenous bases adenine, cytosine, guanine, and thymine. Blood Glucose Homeostasis The endocrine portion of the pancreas controls the homeostasis of glucose in the bloodstream . Blood glucose levels must be maintained within certain limits so that there is a constant supply of glucose to feed the cells of the body but not so much that glucose can damage the kidneys and other organs. The pancreas produces 2 antagonistic hormones to control blood sugar: glucagon and insulin. The alpha cells of the pancreas produce glucagon.

Glucagon raises blood glucose levels by stimulating the liver to metabolize glycogen into glucose molecules and to release glucose into the blood. Glucagon also stimulates adipose tissue to metabolize triglycerides into glucose and to release glucose into the blood. Insulin is produced by the beta cells of the pancreas. This hormone lowers blood glucose levels after a meal by stimulating the absorption of glucose by liver , muscle, and adipose tissues. Insulin triggers the formation of glycogen in the muscles and liver and triglycerides in adipose to store the absorbed glucose. Regulation of Pancreatic Function The pancreas is controlled by both the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and the endocrine system. The ANS has 2 divisions: the sympathetic and the parasympathetic. Nerves of the sympathetic division become active during stressful situations, emergencies, and exercise. Sympathetic neurons stimulate the alpha cells of the pancreas to release the hormone glucagon into the bloodstream. Glucagon stimulates the liver to begin the breakdown of the energy storage molecule glycogen into smaller glucose molecules. Glucose is then released into the bloodstream for the organs, especially the heart and skeletal muscles , to use as energy.

The sympathetic nerves also inhibit the function of beta cells and acini to reduce or prevent the secretion of insulin and pancreatic juice. The inhibition of these functions provides more energy for other parts of the body that are active in dealing with the stressful situation. Nerves of the parasympathetic division of the ANS become active during restful times and during the digestion of a meal. Parasympathetic nerves stimulate the release of insulin and pancreatic juice by the pancreas. Pancreatic juice helps with the digestion of food while insulin stores the glucose released from the digested food in the body’s cells. The endocrine system uses 2 hormones to regulate the digestive function of the pancreas: secretin and cholecystokinin (CCK). Cells in the lining of the duodenum produce secretin in response to acidic chyme emerging from the stomach. Secretin stimulates the pancreas to produce and secrete pancreatic juice containing a high concentration of bicarbonate ions. Bicarbonate reacts with and neutralizes hydrochloric acid present in chyme to return the chyme to a neutral pH of around 7.

CCK is a hormone produced by cells in the lining of the duodenum in response to the presence of proteins and fats in chyme. CCK travels through the bloodstream and binds to receptor cells in the acini of the pancreas. CCK stimulates these cells to produce and secrete pancreatic juice that has a high concentration of digestive enzymes. The high levels of enzymes in pancreatic juice help to digest large protein and lipid molecules that are more difficult to break down. Pancreatic health problems If the ducts leading from the pancreas are blocked in some way – such as when a gallstone blocks the ampulla of Vater - pancreatic fluids can build up in the pancreas and may then become activated so that they digest the pancreas itself. This condition is known as acute pancreatitis . If the onset is gradual and longer-term, we call it chronic pancreatitis. Pancreatic cancer has one of the direst prognoses of any of the types of cancer, in part because it tends to be very metastatic (it spreads rapidly) and because it is often undiagnosed at an early stage.

Pancreatic surgery can be quite problematic for several reasons: The pancreas’ soft, spongy, tissue is very blood-rich, but its texture makes it extremely difficult to suture. Tumors are often advanced by the time they are detected. Due to the complexities, candidates for surgery are often strongly advised to seek their treatment in a facility that conducts a higher volume of such procedures. Prepared by Tim Taylor, Anatomy and Physiology Instructor The Endocrine System (Hormones) | Medical Terminology for Cancer Medical Terminology for Cancer 12: The Endocrine System (Hormones) Found this page useful? Functions of the Endocrine System The Endocrine system (along with the nervous system) controls and regulates the complex activities of the body. The Endocrine system regulates the activities of the body by secreting complex chemical substances (hormones) into the blood stream. These secretions come from a variety of glands which control various organs of the body. The key functions are: To regulate the metabolic functions of the body. To regulate the rate of chemical reactions in various cells. To influence the ability of substances to transport themselves through cell membranes.

About Hormones Hormones are secreted from the glands of the endocrine system, they are specific in that each hormone causes a response in a specific target organ or group of cells, rather than on the body as a whole. Exocrine hormones are secreted via a duct into the blood and usually effect a distant organ or tissue. Endocrine hormones are secreted within the tissue (rather than via a duct) and enter the blood stream via capillaries. Hormones can be grouped into three main types: amines, these are simple molecules proteins and peptides which are made from chains of amino acids steroids which are derived from cholesterol. Glands discharge hormones directly into the bloodstream. They have built in feedback mechanisms that maintain a proper balance of hormones, and prevent excess hormone secretion. Low concentrations of a hormone will often trigger the gland to secrete. Once the concentrations of the hormone in the blood rise this may cause the gland to stop secreting, until once again hormone concentrations fall. This feedback mechanism (which is characteristic of most glands) causes a cycle of hormone secretions. Disposal of waste. Once hormones have served their function on their target organs/tissues they are destroyed. They are either destroyed by the liver or the actual tissues of the target organs.

They are then removed by the kidneys. The Pituitary Gland This is known as the "master gland" because it exerts control over all of the other glands of the endocrine system. Despite its importance the pituitary gland is no larger than a small pea. The Pituitary gland is made up of two separate glands: the Anterior lobe which is an outgrowth of the pharynx, and the Posterior lobe which is an outgrowth of the brain composed of neural (nerve) tissue. The Anterior Lobe of the pituitary plays the 'master' role secreting six major hormones that affect most of the body, including the other Endocrine glands: ACTH (Adrenocorticotrophic hormone) stimulates the adrenal glands to secrete its hormones. hGH (Human growth hormone) also known as somatotrophic hormone is responsible for the growth of long bones, muscles and viscera. TSH (Thyroid stimulating hormone) influences the structure of the thyroid and causes it to secrete thyroid hormone. FSH (Follicle stimulating hormone) stimulates female egg production or male sperm production.

PRL (Prolactin) in females causes the corpus luteum the area around the mature follicle to produce two important hormones: Oestrogen and Progesterone. During pregnancy PRL is also responsible for the development of the glandular tissues of the breast which produce milk. LH (Luteinzing hormone) works in conjunction with FSH in females to cause ovulation and prepares the uterus for pregnancy, in males the testes to secrete testosterone. The Posterior Lobe of the Pituitary Gland (or neurophpophysis) stores and releases hormones secreted by the hypothalamus section of the brain including: ADH (Antidiuretic hormone) stimulates the smooth muscles, blood vessels and the intestine. ADH increases the kidney's permeability to water allowing the body to re-absorb water that would otherwise escape in urine. OT (Oxytocin) stimulates the smooth muscles of the uterus during pregnancy, causing it to contract during labour. It also stimulates the lacteals (milk ducts) in the breast. The Thyroid gland The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland which is located at the base of the throat .

It has two lobes separated in the middle by a strip of tissue (the isthmus). The Thyroid itself secretes three main hormones: Thyroxine contains iodine which is essential for the body's normal growth, and metabolism. Thyroxine helps control body size, regulating not only the growth of tissues but also the differentiation or specialisation of tissues. Triiodothyronine has similar functions to thyroxine. Calcitonin causes a decrease in the concentration of calcium in the blood. Calcitonin works with secretions from the parathyroid glands to maintain the balance of calcium necessary for the body to function. People who have surgery to remove the thyroid gland (thyroidectomy) for cancer or other thyroid problems usually need to take thyroxine supplements in order to maintain normal weigh and body functions. The Parathyroids There are four Parathyroid glands which are small and rounded, arranged in two pairs usually located above and below the thyroid. Each Parathyroid is small, yellow and smooth, sometimes they imbed themselves in the thyroid itself. Parathyroid hormone increases the blood concentrations of calcium and phosphorous, working to balance the Calcitonin which is secreted by the thyroid to maintain the body's balance of calcium.

The Pancreas The pancreas is a long, narrow, lobed gland located behind the stomach. The Pancreas has two types of cells: exocrine and endocrine cells. The exocrine cells secrete Pancreatic juices which are used in the duodenum as an important part in the digestive system. The endocrine cells are arranged in clusters throughout the Pancreas, these known as Islets of Langerhans . There are three types of endocrine cells; alpha cells which secrete glucagon, beta cells which secrete insulin, and delta cells which inhibit the secretion on glucagon and insulin: Glucagon increases the blood glucose level by stimulating the liver causing convert Glycogen into Glucose (sugar). Insulin increases the cells permeability to glucose, which the cells use for energy. By promoting the utilisation of glucose by the tissue cells, insulin causes a decrease in the concentration of glucose in the blood. Insulin also promotes the storage of glycogen in the liver. The Adrenal Glands The adrenal glands resemble small caps perched on top of each kidney. The Adrenal is actually a combination of two glands the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla.

The adrenal cortex is essential for life, as opposed to the adrenal medulla which is important but not indispensable. The anterior pituitary controls the adrenal cortex by secreting the hormone ACTH. All of the secretions of the adrenal cortex are known as steroids, many of which can now be manufactured synthetically. The adrenal cortex is made up of three layers associated with three classes of hormones: Mineralocorticoids are produced by the outer layer of the adrenal cortex, the most important of which is aldosterone. Aldosterone promotes the retention of sodium (Na+) and the excretion of potassium (K+). This helps to maintain both the electrolyte and water content of the body. Glucocorticoids are produced by the middle cortex. These affect almost every cell in the body regulating the metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Cortisone is one such glucocorticoid. Gonadal hormones are produced by the inner cortex, there are roughly even amounts of two types of hormones secreted: Androgen (male) and Estrogen (female). The adrenal gland is not the only gland to secrete sex hormones. The Adrenal Medulla is the inner part of the adrenal gland.

The hormones secreted effect the structures in the body that are under the control of the sympathetic nervous system, aiding the body to deal with stressful situations such as fright, attack or pursuit. They are both associated with an increased heart beat, higher blood pressure, and higher blood glucose levels, thus preparing the body for quick action. Adrenalin (or epinephrine) affects both alpha and beta receptors in the nervous system. Noradrenalin (Norepinephrine) affects only the alpha receptors of the nervous system. The Gonads The gonads consist of ovaries in the female and testes in the male. These glands produce hormones important in the development and functioning of the reproductive organs. they are under the control of the pituitary gland, and produce the secondary sexual traits. Male testes are egg shaped glands located in the sac like scrotum, and serve two main functions: (i) The production of sperm cells, and (ii) The secretion of testosterone. Testosterone is the masculizing hormone inducing male secondary sexual characteristics after puberty. Female ovaries are two almond shaped glands on each side of the uterus.

They have three main functions; (i) Containing immature ova (eggs), (ii) The secretion of oestrogen, and (ii) the secretion of progesterone. Ostrogen is secreted by the adrenal cortex as well as the ovaries, and is present in the blood of all females from puberty through to the menopause. oestrogen acts on the structure of the reproductive organs, especially during the menstrual cycle. This induces and maintains female secondary sexual characteristics. Progesterone works on the uterus to prepare it for the implantation of a fertilised ovum (egg). It causes the development of the breasts, and is essential for the complete development of the maternal proportion of the placenta. Giantism too much HGH is secreted before puberty. Dwarfism is caused by a lack of HGH before puberty. Diabetes Mellitus is a condition with under-secretion of insulin, causing the cells to loose their permeability to glucose preventing them from getting sugar needed for energy. Sugar remains in the blood and often the body will try and remove this leading to a high sugar content in the urine, causing polyuria (passing of large volumes of urine) and polydipsia (excessive thirst).

Roots, suffixes, and prefixes Most medical terms are comprised of a root word plus a suffix (word ending) and/or a prefix (beginning of the word). Here are some examples related to the Endocrine System. For more details see Chapter 4: Understanding the Components of Medical Terminology component The endocrine secretion of human insulin and growth hormone by exocrine glands of the gastrointestinal tract. - PubMed - NCBI Nat Biotechnol. 1997 Dec;15(13):1378-82. The endocrine secretion of human insulin and growth hormone by exocrine glands of the gastrointestinal tract. 1School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of California at San Francisco, USA. idg@itsa.ucsf.edu Abstract The exocrine pancreas, liver, and submandibular glands of the rat were used to express and secrete two exogenous, human protein hormones (growth hormone and insulin) into blood at physiological concentrations. Transfection, expression, and secretion were achieved by the in vivo retrograde injection of plasmid DNA into the secretory ducts of these glands.

Pancreatic acinar cells secreted physiological concentrations of growth hormone into the circulation, and its secretion was enhanced by cholinergic stimulation. A human insulin gene was engineered to allow normal processing of insulin in non-beta cells. With this gene, the secretion of human insulin by the exocrine pancreas normalized elevated blood glucose levels in diabetic rats. These in vivo observations demonstrate the utility of retrograde ductal administration of naked DNA into exocrine organs as a novel method for the regulated systemic delivery of protein-based pharmaceuticals. PMID: Endocrine System Endocrine System El sistema endocrino Ever dozed through chemistry class and wondered what chemistry had to do with you? A lot! Your body produces its own chemicals and uses them to control certain functions, and the main system that coordinates these chemicals is called the endocrine system. What Is the Endocrine System? Although we rarely think about the endocrine system, it influences almost every cell, organ, and function of our bodies. The endocrine system plays a role in regulating mood, growth and development, tissue function, metabolism, and sexual function and reproductive processes. In general, the endocrine system is in charge of body processes that happen slowly, such as cell growth.

Faster processes like breathing and body movement are controlled by the nervous system. But even though the nervous system and endocrine system are separate systems, they often work together to help the body function properly. The foundations of the endocrine system are the hormones and glands. As the body's chemical messengers, hormones transfer information and instructions from one set of cells to another. Many different hormones move through the bloodstream, but each type of hormone is designed to affect only certain cells. A gland is a group of cells that produces and secretes, or gives off, chemicals. A gland selects and removes materials from the blood, processes them, and secretes the finished chemical product for use somewhere in the body. Some types of glands release their secretions in specific areas. For instance, exocrine (pronounced: EK-suh-krin) glands, such as the sweat and salivary glands, release secretions in the skin or inside the mouth. Endocrine glands, on the other hand, release more than 20 major hormones directly into the bloodstream where they can be transported to cells in other parts of the body.

The major glands that make up the human endocrine system include the: hypothalamus continue Hypothalamus The hypothalamus (pronounced: hi-po-THAL-uh-mus), a collection of specialized cells that is located in the lower central part of the brain, is the main link between the endocrine and nervous systems. Nerve cells in the hypothalamus control the pituitary gland by producing chemicals that either stimulate or suppress hormone secretions from the pituitary. Pituitary Although it is no bigger than a pea, the pituitary (pronounced: puh-TOO-uh-ter-ee) gland, located at the base of the brain just beneath the hypothalamus, is considered the most important part of the endocrine system. It's often called the "master gland" because it makes hormones that control several other endocrine glands. The production and secretion of pituitary hormones can be influenced by factors such as emotions and changes in the seasons. To accomplish this, the hypothalamus provides information sensed by the brain (such as environmental temperature, light exposure patterns, and feelings) to the pituitary.

The tiny pituitary is divided into two parts: the anterior lobe and the posterior lobe. The anterior lobe regulates the activity of the thyroid, adrenals, and reproductive glands. The anterior lobe produces hormones such as: growth hormone, which stimulates the growth of bone and other body tissues and plays a role in the body's handling of nutrients and minerals prolactin (pronounced: pro-LAK-tin), which activates milk production in women who are breastfeeding thyrotropin (pronounced: thy-ruh-TRO-pin), which stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones corticotropin (pronounced: kor-tih-ko-TRO-pin), which stimulates the adrenal gland to produce certain hormones The pituitary also secretes endorphins (pronounced: en-DOR-fins), chemicals that act on the nervous system and reduce feelings of pain. In addition, the pituitary secretes hormones that signal the reproductive organs to make sex hormones. The pituitary gland also controls ovulation and the menstrual cycle in women.

The posterior lobe of the pituitary releases antidiuretic (pronounced: an-ty-dy-uh-REH-tik) hormone, which helps control the balance of water in the body. The posterior lobe also produces oxytocin (pronounced: ahk-see-TOE-sin), which triggers the contractions of the uterus in a woman having a baby. previous continue Thyroid The thyroid (pronounced: THY-royd), located in the front part of the lower neck, is shaped like a bow tie or butterfly and produces the thyroid hormones thyroxine (pronounced: thy-RAHK-sin) and triiodothyronine (pronounced: try-eye-oh-doe-THY-ruh-neen). These hormones control the rate at which cells burn fuels from food to produce energy. The production and release of thyroid hormones is controlled by thyrotropin (pronounced: thy-ruh-TRO-pin), which is secreted by the pituitary gland. The more thyroid hormone there is in a person's bloodstream, the faster chemical reactions occur in the body. Why are thyroid hormones so important?

There are several reasons — for example, they help kids' and teens' bones grow and develop, and they also play a role in the development of the brain and nervous system in kids. Parathyroids Attached to the thyroid are four tiny glands that function together called the parathyroids (pronounced: par-uh-THY-roydz). They release parathyroid hormone, which regulates the level of calcium in the blood with the help of calcitonin (pronounced: kal-suh-TOE-nin), which is produced in the thyroid. Adrenal Glands The body also has two triangular adrenal (pronounced: uh-DREE-nul) glands, one on top of each kidney. The adrenal glands have two parts, each of which produces a set of hormones and has a different function: The outer part, the adrenal cortex, produces hormones called corticosteroids (pronounced: kor-tih-ko-STER-oydz) that influence or regulate salt and water balance in the body, the body's response to stress, metabolism, the immune system, and sexual development and function.

The inner part, the adrenal medulla (pronounced: muh-DUH-luh), produces catecholamines (pronounced: kah-tuh-KO-luh-meenz), such as epinephrine (pronounced: eh-puh-NEH-frun). Also called adrenaline, epinephrine increases blood pressure and heart rate when the body experiences stress. previous continue Pineal The pineal (pronounced: pih-NEE-ul) body, also called the pineal gland, is located in the middle of the brain. It secretes melatonin (pronounced: meh-luh-TOE-nin), a hormone that may help regulate when you sleep at night and when you wake in the morning. Reproductive Glands The gonads are the main source of sex hormones. Most people don't realize it, but both guys and girls have gonads. In guys the male gonads, or testes (pronounced: TES-teez), are located in the scrotum. They secrete hormones called androgens (pronounced: AN-druh-junz), the most important of which is testosterone (pronounced: tess-TOSS-tuh-rone).

These hormones tell a guy's body when it's time to make the changes associated with puberty , like penis and height growth, deepening voice, and growth in facial and pubic hair. Working with hormones from the pituitary gland, testosterone also tells a guy's body when it's time to produce sperm in the testes. A girl's gonads, the ovaries (pronounced: OH-vuh-reez), are located in her pelvis. They produce eggs and secrete the female hormones estrogen (pronounced: ESS-truh-jen) and progesterone (pronounced: pro-JESS-tuh-rone). Estrogen is involved when a girl begins to go through puberty. During puberty, a girl will experience breast growth, will begin to accumulate body fat around the hips and thighs, and will have a growth spurt. Estrogen and progesterone are also involved in the regulation of a girl's menstrual cycle. These hormones also play a role in pregnancy. Although the endocrine glands are the body's main hormone producers, some other organs not in the endocrine system — such as the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, and skin — also produce and release hormones.

Pancreas The pancreas (pronounced: PAN-kree-us) is also part of the body's hormone-secreting system, even though it is also associated with the digestive system because it produces and secretes digestive enzymes. The pancreas produces (in addition to others) two important hormones, insulin (pronounced: IN-suh-lin) and glucagon (pronounced: GLOO-kuh-gawn). They work together to maintain a steady level of glucose, or sugar, in the blood and to keep the body supplied with fuel to produce and maintain stores of energy. previous continue What Does the Endocrine System Do? Once a hormone is secreted, it travels from the endocrine gland that produced it through the bloodstream to the cells designed to receive its message. These cells are called target cells. Along the way to the target cells, special proteins bind to some of the hormones. These proteins act as carriers that control the amount of hormone that is available for the cells to use. The target cells have receptors that latch onto only specific hormones, and each hormone has its own receptor, so that each hormone will communicate only with specific target cells that have receptors for that hormone.

When the hormone reaches its target cell, it locks onto the cell's specific receptors and these hormone-receptor combinations transmit chemical instructions to the inner workings of the cell. When hormone levels reach a certain normal amount, the endocrine system helps the body to keep that level of hormone in the blood. For example, if the thyroid gland has secreted the right amount of thyroid hormones into the blood, the pituitary gland senses the normal levels of thyroid hormone in the bloodstream. Then the pituitary gland adjusts its release of thyrotropin, the hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Another example of this process is parathyroid hormone, which increases the level of calcium in the blood. When the blood calcium level rises, the parathyroid glands sense the change and reduce their secretion of parathyroid hormone. This turnoff process is called a negative feedback system. previous continue Things That Can Go Wrong Too much or too little of any hormone can be harmful to your body. For example, if the pituitary gland produces too much growth hormone, a teen may grow excessively tall. If it produces too little, a teen may be unusually short.

Doctors can often treat problems with the endocrine system by controlling the production of hormones or replacing certain hormones with medication. Endocrine problems that can affect teens include: Adrenal insufficiency. This condition occurs when the adrenal glands don't produce enough corticosteroids. The symptoms of adrenal insufficiency may include weakness, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, dehydration, and skin changes. Doctors treat adrenal insufficiency with medications to replace corticosteroid hormones. Type 1 diabetes . When the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, type 1 diabetes (previously known as juvenile diabetes) occurs. In kids and teens, type 1 diabetes is usually an autoimmune disorder, which means that some parts of the body's immune system attack and destroy the cells of the pancreas that produce insulin. To control their blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes problems, kids and teens with this condition need regular injections of insulin. Type 2 diabetes. Unlike type 1 diabetes, in which the body can't produce normal amounts of insulin, in type 2 diabetes the body can't respond to insulin normally. Kids and teens with the condition tend to be overweight.

Some kids and teens can control their blood sugar level with dietary changes, exercise, and oral medications, but many will need to take insulin injections like people with type 1 diabetes. Growth hormone problems. Too much growth hormone in kids and teens who are still growing will make their bones and other body parts grow excessively. This rare condition (sometimes called gigantism) is usually caused by a pituitary tumor and can be treated by removing the tumor. The opposite can happen when a kid or teen has a pituitary glad that doesn't produce enough growth hormone. Doctors may treat these growth problems with medication. Hyperthyroidism . Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood are very high. In kids and teens, the condition is usually caused by Graves' disease, an immune system problem that causes the thyroid gland to become very active. Doctors may treat hyperthyroidism with medications, surgery, or radiation treatments. Hypothyroidism . Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood are very low. Thyroid hormone deficiency slows body processes and may lead to fatigue, a slow heart rate, dry skin, weight gain, and constipation.

Kids and teens with this condition may also grow more slowly and reach puberty at a later age. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an immune system problem that often causes problems with the thyroid and blocks the production of thyroid hormone. Doctors often treat this problem with medication. Precocious puberty. If the pituitary glands release hormones that stimulate the gonads to produce sex hormones too early, some kids may begin to go through puberty at a very young age. This condition is called precocious puberty. Kids and teens who are affected by precocious puberty can be treated with medication that will help them develop at a normal rate.

Endocrine System Endocrine System Typical Endocrine Glands Pituitary Gland Master galnd of the body, It has two lobes, Present at the base of brain in form of a protrusion, Secretes 9 different major hormones Thyroid Gland One of the largest glands of body, Found in neck below the thyroid cartilage, Mainly controls body metabolism, Secretes 3 different hormones Parathyroid Glands Four in number, located behind the thyroid gland, produce parathormone Adrenal Glands Found attached to the kidneys, Consists of two parts; Cortex and Medulla, Adrenal cortex produces 3 different hormones and adrenal medulla produces 4 different hormones Organs with Secondary endocrine function Pancreas Primarily an organ of digestive system, produces 4 different hormones including Insulin and Glucagon Gonads Primarily organs of reproductive system, Testes in males produse testosterone, Ovaries in females produce Estrogens and Progesterone Liver Primarily a metabolic organ of human body, produces 3 different types of hormones Kidneys Primarily an organ of Excretory system, Produces 4 different types of hormones Functions Generally it parallels the associates the nervous system in control of body activitie, Each

 hormone has a specific function, Introduction to endocrine System: Endocrine System Endocrine system is the system of glands of human body.

Each of these glands secretes one or more different hormones in the blood for different functions. The secretions of endocrine glands are known as hormones. Each endocrine gland may secrete one or more hormones in the blood and these hormones may or may not have related functions. Generally the hormones regulate different functions of human body like growth, mood, development, and metabolism etc. The perform their function by attaching to the target cells and then communicating with them. Endocrine Glands: Endocrine glands are ductless glands of human body that pour their secretions (hormones) directly into the blood. They have three characteristic features that are: They are ductless They are highly vascularized They possess intracellular vacuoles or granules that store the hormones In contrast to the endocrine glands are the “exocrine glands”. The see a detailed explanation of difference between endocrine glands and exocrine glands, visit:””. Endocrine glands of Human Body: Endocrine glands of human body are divided into two categories; 1) Typical endocrine glands, 2) Organs having secondary endocrine function 1) TYPICAL ENDOCRINE GLANDS: These glands have primary function of producing hormones for human body.

Typical endocrine glands include; PITUITARY GLAND Hormones Produced By The Human Body - Testosterone, Human Growth Hormone | Hormones and Anti-Aging Medicine | OptimalHormoneTherapy.com Hormones Are Essential For Healthy Living Discover The Most Important Hormones like Testosterone & HGH for Healthy Aging in both Men & Women Hormones are chemicals that function as your body's messengers to bring important biological information to your cells, tissues and organs. They regulate your metabolism, temperature, growth, sexual health, sleep, brain, heart, kidney and reproductive functions. Optimal Health Medical Center specializes in hormone replacement therapy to help men and women suffering from a hormonal imbalance or deficiency caused by menopuase or andropause, the male menopause or Low T. Our hormone doctors prescribe natural or bio-identical hormones as part of a comprehensive and holistic hormone treatment plan. If you would like more information, fill out the information request form or call us at 1-888-663-1777 When your hormone levels are low, you will not function well or perform at your best.

Hormone levels decline as you age and the receptor cells that receive the imortant biological messages become less efficient at accepting those messages over time. Through Hormone Replacement Therapy or HRT , your physician can help restore normal hormone levels including the primary hormones that can have a real impact on the quality of your life such as Testosterone, Human Growth Hormone, Thyroid, Estrogen, Progesterone, Cortisol, DHEA, Insulin, Melatonin and others. Hormone Optimization entails maintaining healthy hormonal balance at levels that are optimal for your body. When hormone physicians assess your hormone health they will review your bloodwork and determine the level of hormones in your system. Below is a list of some of these important hormones. Testosterone Testosterone, the male sex hormone is a steroid hormone from the androgen group. Testosterone is primarily secreted in the testicles of males and the ovaries of females, although small amounts are also secreted by the adrenal glands in women. It is the principal male sex hormone and an anabolic steroid.

In men, testosterone plays a key role in the development of male reproductive tissues such as the testis and prostate as well as promoting secondary sexual characteristics such as increased muscle, bone mass, deep voice, and the growth of body hair. In addition, testosterone is essential for health and well-being as well as the prevention of osteoporosis (bone loss). Human Growth Hormone Growth hormone (GH or HGH) is a peptide hormone that stimulates growth, cell reproduction and regeneration in humans and other animals. Human Growth hormone is a 191-amino acid, single-chain polypeptide that is synthesized, stored, and secreted by somatotropic cells within the lateral wings of the anterior pituitary gland. Growth hormone or Somatropin for Injection rDNA is used as a prescription drug in medicine to treat children's growth disorders and adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD). Growth Hormone decline is normally seen in middle-aged adults experiencing menopause or andropausal (male menopaue) symptoms. In the United States, it is only available legally from pharmacies, by prescription from a doctor.

In recent years in the United States, some doctors have started to prescribe growth hormone in HGH-deficient older patients to increase vitality and help reverse the signs and symptoms of aging. The efficacy and safety of this use for HGH has been tested in a variety of medical research and clinical trials. HGH is considered a very complex hormone with many of its functions still waiting to be discovered. In its role as an anabolic agent, HGH has been abused by competitors in sports, bodybuilding and even the Olympics. Estrogen / Estradiol Estrogen is the female sex hormone. The three major naturally occurring estrogens in women are estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3). Estradiol is the predominant estrogen during reproductive years. During menopause, estrone (E1) is the predominant circulating estrogen and during pregnancy estriol (E3) is the predominant circulating estrogen in terms of serum levels. Though estriol (E3) is the most plentiful of the three estrogens it is also the weakest, whereas estradiol (E2) is the strongest with a potency of approximately 80x that of estriol.

Estradiol is the most important estrogen in non-pregnant females who are before and menopause stage of life. However, during pregnancy this role shifts to estriol, and in postmenopausal women estrone becomes the primary form of estrogen in the body. Another type of estrogen called estetrol (E4) is produced only during pregnancy. All of the different forms of estrogen are synthesized from androgens, specifically testosterone and androstenedione, by the enzyme aromatase. Estradiol is a female sex hormone. Estradiol is abbreviated E2 as it has two hydroxyl groups in its molecular structure. Estrone has one (E1) and estriol has three (E3). Estradiol is about 10 times as potent as estrone and about 80 times as potent as estriol in its estrogenic effect. As discussed above, Estradiol is the predominant estrogen during the reproductive years. During menopause, estrone (E1) is the predominant circulating estrogen and during pregnancy estriol (E3) is the predominant circulating estrogen in terms of serum levels.

Estradiol is also present in males, being produced as an active metabolic product of testosterone. The serum levels of estradiol in males (14 - 55 pg/mL) are roughly comparable to those of postmenopausal women (< 35 pg/mL). Estradiol has not only a critical impact on reproductive and sexual functioning, but also affects other organs, including the bones. Estradiol, like other steroids, is derived from cholesterol. A fraction of androstenedione is converted to testosterone, which in turn undergoes conversion to estradiol by an enzyme called aromatase. In an alternative pathway, androstenedione is aromatized to estrone, which is subsequently converted to estradiol. Progesterone Progesterone also known as P4 is a C-21 steroid hormone involved in the female menstrual cycle, pregnancy (supports gestation) and embryogenesis of humans and other species. Progesterone belongs to a class of hormones called progestogens, and is the major naturally occurring human progestogen.

In women, progesterone levels are relatively low during the preovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle, rise after ovulation, and are elevated during the luteal phase, as shown in diagram below. Progesterone levels tend to be < 2 ng/ml prior to ovulation, and > 5 ng/ml after ovulation. If pregnancy occurs, human chorionic gonadotropin is released maintaining the corpus leuteum allowing it to maintain levels of progesterone. Melatonin Melatonin promotes sleepiness. In humans, melatonin is produced by the pineal gland, a small endocrine gland located in the center of the brain. Circadium Rythm - the melatonin signal forms part of the system that regulates the sleep-wake cycle by chemically causing drowsiness and lowering the body temperature, but it is the central nervous system that controls the daily cycle in most components of the paracrine and endocrine systems. Infants' melatonin levels become regular in about the third month after birth, with the highest levels measured between midnight and 08:00 (8 AM).

In humans, 90% of melatonin is cleared in a single passage through the liver, a small amount is excreted in urine and a small amount is found in saliva. Human melatonin production decreases as a person ages and as children become teenagers, the nightly schedule of melatonin release is delayed, leading to later sleeping and waking times. Production of melatonin by the pineal gland is inhibited by light to the retina and permitted by darkness. Its onset each evening is called the dim-light melatonin onset (DLMO). When used several hours before sleep according to the phase response curve for melatonin in humans, small amounts (0.3 mg[36]) of melatonin shift the circadian clock earlier, thus promoting earlier sleep onset and morning awakening. Besides its function as synchronizer of the biological clock, melatonin also exerts a powerful antioxidant activity. Melatonin is an antioxidant that can easily cross cell membranes and the blood?rain barrier. This antioxidant is a direct scavenger of radical oxygen and nitrogen species. Melatonin works with other antioxidants to improve the overall effectiveness from each antioxidant.

Oxytocin Oxytocin may be considered the Love Hormone and hormone studies have begun to investigate oxytocin's role in various sexual behaviors, including orgasm, social recognition, pair bonding, anxiety, and maternal behavior. There is some evidence that oxytocin promotes bonding and tribal behavior. Hormones have an impact on behavior and Oxytocin seems to foster the trust of accepted group members and rejection of outsiders. This kind of behavior is exhibited in the strong maternal bond a mother has with her own child versus others. The oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) has also been associated with social traits such as aggression. Insulin Insulin is a peptide hormone produced by the pancreas and is central to regulating carbohydrate, sugar (glucose) and fat metabolism in the body. Insulin helps bring sugar (glucose) into your body's cells to use for energy. The brain also depends on glucose as its primary fuel and red blood cells use only glucose as a fuel. Insulin causes cells in the liver, muscles and fat tissue to take up sugar (glucose) from the blood and store it. In the liver and muscles glucose is converted and stored as glycogen.

In the fatty tissue cells known as adipocytes, it is converted and stored as triglycerides. Insulin is secreted as needed by the pancreas preventing the use of fat as an energy source and inducing the body to properly absorb and convert excess glucose to glycogen and triglycerides. Insulin serves to remove excess sugar (glucose) from the blood which would otherwise become toxic to the body. When blood sugar or glucose levels fall below a certain level, the body is signaled to begin using stored sugar as an energy source through glycogenolysis, which breaks down the glycogen stored in the liver and muscles into glucose, which can then be utilized as an energy source by the body. Glycogenolysis occurs primarily in the liver and is stimulated by the hormones glucagon from the pancreas and epinephrine (adrenaline). When blood glucose levels fall there is an increase in glucagon secretion from the pancreas accompanied by a decrease in insulin secretion so the body uses glucose for energy instead of storing it. When blood glucose levels rise, insulin is released to help the cells absorb sugar and to store any excess sugar as glycogen and triglycerides thereby maintaning proper glucose levels in the body.

Gluconeogenesis helps to maintain the glucose level in the blood so that the brain and muscles can extract sufficient glucose from it to meet their metabolic demands. Insulin also signals amino acid uptake by body cells and has other anabolic effects throughout the body. When you've been sick or injured, or if you're recovering from surgery, insulin helps you heal by bringing amino acids which are the building blocks of muscle protein to your injured muscles. Amino acids help repair muscular damage and help them regain their size and strength. If there isn't enough insulin in your body when your muscles have been injured or when you are sick, amino acids can't do their job. In the absence of insulin or in conditions where insulin is too low, glucose is not taken up by body cells and the body begins to use fat as its source of energy. If your body is unable to secrete suffcient insulin as needed, overnight your liver will release too much glycogen into your blood stream creating a toxic condition. People with diabetes have too high a blood glucose level, also called high blood sugar or hyperglycemia. Diabetes is a disorder of the metabolism or the way the body uses digested food for energy.

When insulin is no longer is secreted (Diabetes1) or secreted in too low a level (Diabetes 2), blood sugar levels will be too high. In addition a person's body may no longer effectively use insulin and a glucose build will result. Insulin therapy is used to treat diabetes by replenishing insulin the body needs to properly absorb and synthesize glucose (Blood Sugar). Patients with type 1 diabetes depend on external insulin which is usually injected subcutaneously for their survival because the hormone is no longer produced internally. Patients with type 2 diabetes are insulin resistant and suffer from an insulin deficiency. Thyroid The thyroid gland is one of the largest endocrine glands in the human body. The thyroid gland is found in the neck below the thyroid cartilage or Adam's apple. The thyroid gland controls how quickly the body uses energy, makes proteins and how sensitive the body is to other hormones. The thyroid gland participates in these biological processes by producing thyroid hormones, the main ones being triiodothyronine (T3) and (T4) thyroxine - also referred to as tetraiodothyronine. T3 & T4 thyroid hormones regulate the rate of metabolism and affect the function of many other systems in the body.

T3 and T4 are synthesized from both iodine and tyrosine. The thyroid also produces calcitonin, which plays a role in calcium homeostasis. Hormonal output from the thyroid is regulated by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) produced by the anterior pituitary, which itself is regulated by thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) produced by the hypothalamus. The most common hormonal imbalance problems of the thyroid gland consist of an overactive thyroid gland, referred to as hyperthyroidism, and an underactive thyroid gland, referred to as hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is treated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) using a hormone medication such as levothyroxine which is typically required to be taken for the rest of the patient's life. Thyroid hormone treatment is given under the care of a licensed physician and can take a few weeks to become effective in order to alleviate symptoms. Cortisol Cortisol, also known as hydrocortisone, is a steroid hormone or glucocorticoid produced by the adrenal glands. It is released in response to stress.

Its primary functions of cortisol are to increase blood sugar through gluconeogenesis which is the release of glycogen (stored sugar) from the liver and muscle. Cortisol also suppresses the immune system, and aids in fat, protein and carbohydrate metabolism. Cortisol hormone prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation. Cortisol stimulates gastric-acid secretion and inhibits loss of sodium from he body. Too much cortisol can weaken the activity of the immune system, counteract insulin, inhibit collagen and bone formation. Hydrocortisone is used to treat endocrine, gland and hormone disorders, arthritis, lupus, skin disease, allergies, autoimmune disorders, swelling, asthma or other breathing problems. Prolactin Prolactin is a peptide hormone made by the pituitary gland. Pregnant women have high levels of prolactin which helps to make breast milk. During pregnancy, prolactin levels increase and after the baby is born prolactin stays high if a mother is breast-feeding. In women who do not breast-feed, prolactin levels return to normal soon after they give birth.

After months of breast-feeding, prolactin levels may also return to normal levels even if a woman is still breast-feeding. The pituitary gland in men and non-pregnant women also produce prolactin but at a much lower level. Prolactin hormone levels are different throughout the day with the highest levels occur during sleep and shortly after you wake up which is very similar to Human Growth Hormone. Prolactin levels also get higher during times of physical or emotional stress as do cortisol levels. Leptin Leptin is a protein hormone that plays a key role in regulating energy intake and energy expenditure including appetite, hunger and metabolism. It is one of the most important adipose or fatty tissue-derived hormones. Leptin inhibits appetite and signals the body that it has had enough to eat. The level of circulating leptin is proportional to the total amount of fat in the body. The absence of leptin or its receptor cells can lead to uncontrolled food intake resulting obesity. Fasting or following a very-low-calorie diet lowers leptin levels which signals hunger to the brain. Leptin is more sensitive to starvation than to overfeeding and leptin levels change more when less food is eaten than when more is eaten.

DHEA DHEA is known as Dehydroepiandrosterone, as androstenolone or prasterone, and is a very important steroid hormone. DHEA is known for being the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in human beings. DHEA hormoe is produced in the adrenal glands, in the gonads and in the brain where it functions to assist with metabolism and synthesis of androgen and estrogen sex hormones. DHEA reaches its peak levels in the morning and regular exercise and a restricted diet help increase DHEA in the body. Naturally, DHEA is produced from cholesterol and converted to the hormone pregnenolon by enzymes and then to DHEA. For hormone supplementation, DHEA hormone supplements may be produced from wild yam or soy. Taking too much of a DHEA supplement could cause irritability and aggressiveness so as with all anti-aging supplements careful dosing is important. Although DHEA is predominantly a precursor to more potent androgens such as testosterone and estrogen, DHEA has some direct androgenic effect as well. Precursors are the substances that are converted by the body into hormones.

Like Testosterone and HGH, DHEA production peaks in persons mid-20s and production gradually declines with age along with Testosterone, HGH, progesterone and estrogen production. DHEA supplements can help increase the level of these hormones and provide some healt benefits like boosting adrenal gland, strengthening the immune and nervous system, slow some efects of aging, increasing energy, improving mood, focus and memory, and building muscle strength. Most people take DHEA supplements for Anti-Aging purposes and it is not permitted for body-building or professional sports including Olympic athletes. Since DHEA levels decline with age along with HGH and Testosterone, hormone replacement therapy may inlcude DHEA. Some small clinical studies have reported positive anti-aging effects from the use of DHEA supplements. HCG Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone produced during pregnancy that is made by the developing placenta after conception. Human chorionic gonadotropin or HCG is as an ovulation inducer in place of LH or luteinizing hormone.

When mature ovarian follicles exist, ovulation can be triggered by the administration of HCG injections and ovulation will happen between 38 and 40 hours after the HCG injection. HCG is also used by some weight loss doctors and hormone therapy doctors to help patients manage weight and counteract the effects of testosterone replacment therapy. FSH Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a hormone synthesized and secreted by gonadotrophs of of the pituitary gland. FSH is responsible for regulating development, growth, puberty and reproductive functions of the body. FSH and luteinizing hormone (LH) act together in reproduction. An increase in FSH secretion causes ovulation in women. Menopuase is the most common reason for too high a serum of FSH concentration in women as the gonads no longer provide the feedback loop to shut down FSH secretion. In men, too low an FSH level signifies the shutting down of the gonads (hypogonadism) during Andropause (the male menopause) and adversely affects the production and quality of sperm.

Hypogonadism is chracterized by a decline in the free testosterone available to men for use by their bodies. LH Luteinizing hormone (LH), is also known as lutropin or lutrophin and is a hormone produced by gonadotroph cells in the pituitary gland. In females an increase in LH triggers ovulation and the development of the corpus luteum. In males LH serves as an interstitial cell-stimulating hormone stimulating the testes' Leydig cells to produce testosterone. LH works together with FSH in both men and women.

You may have been searching for hormones, hormone therapy, hormone treatment, bio-identical hormones, hormone doctors, hormone clinics, hormones for men, hormones for women, hormone replacement, hormone medication, hormone shots, hormone deficiency, hormonal imbalance, male hormones, female hormones, more searches related to hormone therapy, natural hormone therapy, hormone therapy side effects, hormone replacement therapy, hormone therapy for men, hormone therapy for women, testosterone hormone therapy, hgh hormone therapy, hgh replacement, testosterone replacement, hgh therapy, testosterone therapy, hcg therapy, estrogen therapy, progesterone therapy, bioidentical hormone therapy, male hormone therapy, growth hormone therapy, hormone therapy doctors, hormone therapy physicians, hrt, hrt men, hrt women, hrt doctor, hrt clinic, best hormone therapy, best hormone doctor, best hormone clinic Get a Better Night's Sleep Alleviate Heat / Hot Flashes You & Your Hormones | Glands | Pancreas You & Your Hormones Email article to a friend | Last updated: January 21, 2015 The pancreas is an organ that serves two vital purposes: to aid food digestion and to produce hormones that mainly serve to control levels of energy in the blood.

Computer artwork showing the location of the pancreas in the body. Where is the pancreas? The pancreas is a large gland that lies alongside the stomach and the small bowel. It is about six inches (approximately 15 cm) long and is divided into the head, body and tail. What does the pancreas do? The pancreas carries out two important roles: It makes digestive juices, which consist of powerful enzymes. These are released into the small bowel after meals to break down and digest food. It makes hormones that control blood glucose levels. The pancreas produces hormones in its ‘endocrine’ cells. These cells are gathered in clusters known as islets of Langerhans and monitor what is happening in the blood. They then can release hormones directly into the blood when necessary. In particular, they sense when sugar (glucose) levels in the blood rise, and as soon as this happens the cells produce hormones, particularly insulin . Insulin then helps the body to lower blood glucose levels and ‘store’ the sugar away in fat, muscle, liver and other body tissues where it can be used for energy when required. The pancreas is very close to the stomach.

As soon as food is eaten, the pancreas releases digestive enzymes into the bowel to break food down. As the food is digested, and nutrient levels in the blood rise, the pancreas produces insulin to help the body store the glucose (energy) away. Between meals, the pancreas does not produce insulin and this allows the body to gradually release stores of energy back into the blood as they are needed. Glucose levels remain very stable in the blood at all times to ensure that the body has a steady supply of energy. This energy is needed for metabolism , exercise and, in particular, to fuel the parts of the brain that ‘run’ on glucose. This makes sure that the body doesn’t starve between meals. What hormones does the pancreas produce? The most important hormone that the pancreas produces is insulin. Insulin is released by the ‘beta cells’ in the islets of Langerhans in response to food. Its role is to lower glucose levels in the bloodstream and promote the storage of glucose in fat, muscle, liver and other body tissues. ‘Alpha cells’ in the islets of Langerhans produce another important hormone, glucagon .

This has the opposite effect to insulin, by helping release energy into the bloodstream from where it is stored, thus raising blood sugar levels. Therefore, glucagon and insulin work in tandem to control the balance of glucose in the bloodstream. Other hormones produced by the pancreas include pancreatic polypeptide and somatostatin . They are believed to play a part in regulating and fine-tuning the insulin and glucagon-producing cells. What could go wrong with the pancreas? When the cells that make insulin either stop working altogether, or become inefficient and don’t make enough insulin, this causes diabetes mellitus . Type 1 diabetes mellitus is caused when the body’s immune system attacks its own cells in the islets of Langerhans, meaning that these cells cannot produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder where the body is no longer able to produce or respond to insulin. Some women also get diabetes temporarily when they are pregnant. This is called gestational diabetes . There are other rarer forms of diabetes, some of which are inherited. In addition, people will get diabetes if their pancreas is taken away surgically or damaged (for instance by severe pancreatitis).

Very rarely, patients develop growths (tumours) of the cells that make up the islets of Langerhans. These may be benign tumours, where a particular kind of cell multiplies and makes large quantities of its hormone whether it is needed or not. For example, if the tumour is made of insulin-producing cells, it is called an insulinoma . This is where too much insulin is produced when it is not required. This also happens with glucagon-producing cells, or a glucagonoma , which produces too much glucagon. These and other hormone-producing tumours in the pancreas are very rare, but endocrinology specialists have important parts to play in diagnosing patients with these tumours and contributing to their management and treatment. The digestive cells of the pancreas can be involved in the condition known as pancreatitis. This is a very painful and serious condition caused by digestive enzymes ‘leaking’ into the pancreas itself and damaging the delicate tissues in and around it. It is also possible for a tumour to develop in the part of the pancreas that produces the digestive juices that are released into the bowel. This condition is called pancreatic cancer.

Question: In the human body which gland secretes the hormone insulin?
Answer: Pancreas