What are Ductless Glands?
For many of the glands found in the human anatomy, ducts are an important component of healthy function. These ducts appear as various types of vessels or tubes which are used to transport fluid to and from the glands and throughout the rest of the body. There are also a number of important glands that do not feature these types of canals to carry out their purpose. These are referred to as ductless glands.
Due to the fact that ductless glands do not have any ducts to assist them in transporting their fluids, they must rely on internal secretions to function properly. These glands are able to form their necessary compounds from the materials that are brought to them via the blood supply. They are then able to secrete their hormones back into the blood stream for transportation throughout the body. At times, the secretions can be carried by means of the lymphatic system as well. The goblet cells are in large part responsible for the ability of the glands to secrete directly onto a surface, avoiding the need for a duct.
While there are several ductless glands found in the body, the vast majority of these are included within the endocrine system. These glands are primarily responsible for the regulation of hormones in both male and female anatomy and the control of metabolic activity lies with them as well. The pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain, is considered the master gland of the endocrine system. Although it is only the size of a pea, it is responsible for a number of critical functions including: the production of growth hormone, aspects of pregnancy and childbirth, breast milk production, sex organ function thyroid gland function, conversion of food to energy, and water regulation in the body.
Other glands which can be classified as ductless include the thymus, thyroid, and adrenal glands. The spleen is also considered a ductless gland. This large gland is used to destroy unnecessary red blood cells and functions as a part of the immune system. There are also instances of ductless glands in the gastric and intestinal mucous membranes as well. Still, these glands are primarily concerned with issues of hormone production.
Written by M. Applegate
