ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the approximate anatomical location of the major endocrine glands and major functions of their endocrine hormones. It presents some knowledge of major diseases associated with hormonal excess or deficiency. The endocrine pancreas consists of islet cells in the exocrine pancreas, which lies across the upper posterior abdominal wall. The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is the largest endocrine gland; its hormones are mainly peptides. The GIT produces many peptide hormones; possibly not all have been identified and the functional significance of many already identified is still unclear or unknown. Adipocytes produce the peptide hormone leptin, which is important in the control of feeding and energy expenditure, and is implicated in obesity. Obesity is associated with potentially life-threatening metabolic and cardiovascular disorders, including diabetes mellitus and thromboembolic disease. There are no accredited drug treatments for obesity yet, and treatment is population education and tighter control over the promotion of fattening foods.
