Exocrine
Exocrine
Exocrine (pronounced: eks-oh-krin) is a term used in the field of biology and medicine to describe a type of gland that secretes substances directly into a duct or onto an epithelial surface, rather than into the bloodstream, which is characteristic of endocrine glands. The term "exocrine" is derived from the Greek words "exo", meaning "outside", and "krinein", meaning "to separate".
Function
Exocrine glands are responsible for producing and secreting a variety of substances such as sweat, saliva, and digestive enzymes. These substances are released through a duct that leads to the external environment, or onto an epithelial surface where they can perform their function.
Types
There are several types of exocrine glands, including sweat glands, salivary glands, and mammary glands. Each of these glands produces a specific type of secretion and has a unique role in the body's physiology.
Related Terms
- Endocrine: A type of gland that secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream.
- Gland: An organ in the body that synthesizes a substance for release such as hormones or breast milk.
- Duct: A tube or channel that allows the passage of fluids.
- Epithelial Surface: The layer of cells that line the organs and structures in the body.
- Secretion: The process of producing and releasing a substance, often into the bloodstream or onto an epithelial surface.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Exocrine
- Wikipedia's article - Exocrine
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