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The Endocrine System

The word endocrine comes from the Greek words “endo,” meaning within, and “crinis,” meaning to secrete. Put the two together and you get glands — those hormone-producing organs that regulate your mood and help control your body’s most critical functions. Endocrine all-stars include the pituitary gland (responsible for raging teenage hormones), the thyroid gland (your body’s master metabolic control center) and even the testes and ovaries (which need no introduction). More on those — and other endocrine system news, diseases, and research — right here.

Related Topics: Circulatory System, Skeletal System, Respiratory System, Immune System

Latest Updates

Thyroid Gland: Facts, function & diseases

By Alina Bradford published 5 January 23

The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped organ in the throat. Here's what you need to know about its function.

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By Laura Geggel last updated 17 August 22

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A doctor examines her patient's thyroid gland, which is an important part of the endocrine system.

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By Kim Ann Zimmermann, Sarah Wild published 10 November 21

Facts and information about the endocrine system.

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How Does the Body Know When to Stop Drinking Water?

By Yasemin Saplakoglu published 27 March 19

Too little or too much water can be dangerous for the body.

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Chemicals found in shampoo and makeup may shift up the onset of puberty.

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Doctors removed a 50-pound ovarian tumor from a woman in Alabama.

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By Rachael Rettner published 29 June 18

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By Maureen Salamon published 23 June 18

Men's Testes Have a 'Microbiome.' Could It Affect Fertility?

By Rachael Rettner published 19 June 18

Men's testes were once thought to be free of bacteria, but a small new study suggests that microbes may live naturally in this part of the male reproductive system.

Thymus: Facts, Function & Diseases

By Alina Bradford published 10 May 18

The thymus is the source of T-cells. The body uses T-cells to help destroy infected or cancerous cells.

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By Jessie Szalay published 13 April 18

The pancreas helps regulate blood sugar levels. It is also an important aid in digestion.

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By Cari Nierenberg published 7 March 18

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By Samantha Mathewson published 7 January 18

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Thyroid Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

By Alina Bradford published 31 August 17

The number of thyroid cancer cases has more than tripled in the past 40 years.

Adrenal Glands: Facts, Function & Disease

By Alina Bradford published 10 May 17

The adrenal glands affect metabolism, blood pressure, the immune system, sex hormones and the body’s response to stress.

Pituitary Gland: Facts, Function & Disease

By Alina Bradford published 28 April 17

The pituitary gland is called the master gland of the endocrine system; it controls many other hormone glands in the body.

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