Canadian Medical Guide > Anatomy > Endocrine System Terms and Definitions

Endocrine System

Medical Definition:	The system of glands that release their secretions (hormones) directly into the circulatory system. In addition to the ENDOCRINE GLANDS, included are the CHROMAFFIN SYSTEM and the NEUROSECRETORY SYSTEMS.
Guide Notes:	avoid: too general; prefer ENDOCRINE GLANDS, CHROMAFFIN SYSTEM or NEUROSECRETORY SYSTEMS & their specifics
Previously Indexed:	Endocrine Glands (1966-1997)

Endocrine System Categories.

	Chromaffin System - The cells of the body which stain with chromium salts. They occur along the sympathetic nerves, in the adrenal gland, and in various other organs.
	Endocrine Cells of Gut - Cells found throughout the lining of the gastrointestinal tract that contain regulatory peptide hormones and/or biogenic amines. The substances are located in secretory granules and act in an endocrine or paracrine manner. Some of these substances are also found in neurons in the gut. There are at least 15 different types of endocrine cells of the gut. Some take up amine precursors and have been called APUD CELLS. However, most endocrine cells of the gut apparently have endodermal rather than neuroectodermal origin, so the relationship with APUD cells is not clear.
	Endocrine Glands - Ductless glands that secrete substances which are released directly into the circulation and which influence metabolism and other body functions.
	Neurosecretory Systems - A system of neurons that has the specialized function to produce and secrete hormones, and that constitutes, in whole or in part, an endocrine organ or system.

Endocrine System Medical Definitions and Terms

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