Therefore, endocrine tissues are characteristically present in small quantities. Because of this, relatively few cells are sufficient for the integrative function of large, multicellular organisms. These hormones are effective at exceedingly low concentrations. They produce a very limited spectrum of secretory products, called hormones, that themselves function as signaling molecules for specific cell populations. Individual cell types respond, via surface receptors, to different signals. The blood vessels then serve as conduits for these secretions to travel to their target tissues.Įndocrine tissues function according to a basic model. In contrast to exocrine tissues, where the secretory products are discharged into the external space - the outer surface of the body, mucosal surfaces, duct systems - the endocrine organs and cells secrete their products into the vascular system. The term "endocrine" implies secretion into the internal milieu of a multicellular organism.
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