Endocrine glands respond to diverse stimuli

Thyroid Hormones control Metabolism and Development

First off, the thyroid gland consists of two lobes on the ventral surface of the trachea. This is what enlarges when one lacks iodine intake. Two hormones come from the thyroid derived from tyrosine. The first is Triiodothyronine (T3) and Throxine (T4). They contain 3 iodine and 4 iodine molecules respectively.

Parathyroid glands control blood calcium

Parathyroid glands are a set of four small organs embedded in the posterior surface of the thyroid. When the blood calcium ion levels fall below 10mg/100mL, the glands release PTH, which raises blood Calcium levels by eating at bones. The opposite, Calcitonin stores Calcium into the bones.

Adrenal Glands respond to Stress

These glands are actually split into two parts, the adrenal medulla, and the adrenal cortex. The Adrenal Medulla secretes Catecholamines. These include Epinepherine and Norepinepherine, both of which are responses to stress known as Adrenaline. The Adrenal Cortex secretes Steroid hormones. It secretes a family called corticosteroids, which has two main types, glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids. Glucocorticoids do mainly glucose metabolism. Mineralocorticoids have their effects on mineral metabolism.

Sex Hormones

It’s more than just testosterone and estrogen, contrary to popular belief. The testes in males produce androgens, the main one is testosterone. At human puberty, the androgen levels spike. Estrogens, which includes estradiol, maintain the female reproductive system. During pregnancy, progestins, which includes progesterone, aids in the maintenance of the uterus.

Melatonin and Biorhythms

The pineal gland is a small mass of tissue near the center of the mammalian brain. It creates melatonin, a modified amino acid. It functions in many skin pigmentation effects.

Pretty much all you need to know for now ;D