Endocrine Physiology -

: While the "classical" pathway involves hormones traveling through the blood, they can also act on nearby cells ( paracrine ) or even the secreting cell itself ( autocrine ).

: The system includes the Hypothalamus , Pituitary, Thyroid, Adrenal glands, Pancreas, and gonads (ovaries and testes). Core Functions : Endocrine Physiology

: Hormones like insulin and glucagon (from the pancreas) and thyroid hormones ( T3cap T sub 3 T4cap T sub 4 ) manage energy use and blood sugar levels. : While the "classical" pathway involves hormones traveling

: Growth hormone (pituitary) and sex hormones drive physical development and puberty. : Growth hormone (pituitary) and sex hormones drive

: The ultimate goal of these hormonal interactions is to maintain a constant, balanced internal environment regardless of external changes.

The endocrine system is a network of glands that secrete chemical messengers called hormones directly into the bloodstream to regulate distant target organs.