What is the difference between an endocrine and exocrine gland?

An endocrine gland secretes its products, for example hormones, directly into the blood. An example of an endocrine gland is the adrenal gland which secretes adenaline made in the adrenal medulla directly into the blood.

 

An exocrine gland secretes its products for example enzymes, into ducts that lead to the target tissue. For example the salivary gland secretes saliva into the collecting duct which leads to the mouth.

It's important to note that the pancreas performs both endocrine and exocrine functions. It releases insulin and glucagon directly into the blood (endocrine) and also secretes pancreatic fluid into the pacreatic duct which leads to the duodenum (exocrine). 

Answered by Maddalena C. Biology tutor

265750 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

If every cell in your body has the same DNA then why do we have different types of cells?


Differentiate between a prokaryotic and a eukaryotic cell.


Describe how allopatric speciation occurs.


Explain the differences between the lock-and-key mechanism of enzyme action and the induced fit model


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy