The pituitary gland secretes nine hormones that regulate many body functions and control other endocrine glands. The hypothalamus controls pituitary secretions. Key glands include the thyroid, which regulates metabolism, and the parathyroid glands, which maintain calcium homeostasis in blood with thyroid hormones. The pancreas regulates blood glucose levels via insulin and glucagon. The ovaries and testes produce gametes and sex hormones.

1. 39.2 Human Endocrine Glands

2. Pituitary Gland Gland in the base of the skull that secretes nine hormones that directly regulate many body functions and control the actions of several other endocrine glands.

3. Diabetes Mellitus Condition that occurs when the pancreas produces too little insulin, resulting in an increase in the level of blood glucose.

4. Ovary In plants, a flower structure that contains one or more ovules from which female gametophytes are produced; in animals, the female gonad that produces eggs.

5. Testis Male reproductive organ that produces sperm.

6. Key Concept The pituitary gland secretes nine hormones that directly regulate many body functions and controls the actions of several other endocrine glands.

7. Key Concept The hypothalamus controls the secretions of the pituitary gland.

8. Key Concept The thyroid gland has the major role in regulating the body’s metabolism.

9. Key Concept Hormones from the thyroid gland and the parathyroid glands act to maintain homeostasis of calcium levels in the blood.

10. Key Concept Insulin and glucagon help to keep the level of glucose in the blood stable.

11. Key Concept The gonads serve two important functions: the production of gametes and the secretion of sex hormones.