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Endocrine Gland

Meaning

An endocrine gland is a specialized organ that synthesizes and secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream, bypassing ducts. These chemical messengers travel through the circulatory system to target cells or organs, regulating a vast array of physiological processes throughout the body. Unlike exocrine glands, which release their secretions through ducts onto epithelial surfaces, endocrine glands maintain ductless secretion for systemic distribution.