Diffuse endocrine system

In addition to endocrine organs, many tissues contain cells capable of secreting hormones into the body. These are usually cells scattered in the epithelium or in similar epithelial organs. These include in particular:


 * gastrointestinal epithelium, mainly enteroendocrine cells – produce gastrointestinal hormones affecting e.g. GIT motility and secretion;
 * epithelium gallbladder in the bile ducts;
 * epithelium of the bronchial tree;
 * salivary, lacrimal, mucus glands;
 * epithelium of the nasal mucosa;
 * epithelium of the urogenital system (except testes and ovaries);
 * cardiomyocytes ANF - atrial natriuretic factor;
 * kidneys producing erythropoietin;
 * liver producing 'somatomedins';
 * endothelium producing endothelin.

These cells often produce hormones not only for endocrine but also paracrine, autocrine, and exocrine effect.

Related articles

 * Endocrine organs
 * Overview of gastrointestinal hormones

Literature


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