Endocrine
System
The endocrine system
is made up of a group of glands that produce the body's long-distance
messengers, or hormones. Hormones are chemicals that control
body functions, such as metabolism, growth, and sexual development. The glands,
which include the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, adrenal glands,
thymus gland, pineal body, pancreas, ovaries, and testes, release hormones
directly into the bloodstream, which transports the hormones to organs and
tissues throughout the body.