What are the differences between endocrine and exocrine glands?

Question

Accepted Answer

Basis of differentiation

Exocrine gland

Endocrine gland

Definition

Are glands with ducts which release material onto a surface (e.g. skin, respiratory epithelium, gastrointestinal tract)

Endocrine glands release substances directly into the bloodstream, and are known as ductless glands.

Secretory products

Sweat, mucus, sebum, enzymes

Hormones

Response time

Exhibit a rapid response since substances are secreted directly onto a surface

Response time is longer (seconds to days), since substances are secreted through the bloodstream to the target tissues

Process

Mainly regulates short term activities of the body (e.g. secreting sweat, saliva, tears, milk)

Mainly regulate long term activities of the target organs (e.g. development of brain of the brain and nervous system)

Target

Exocrine gland secretions function locally on the specific surface where they are released

Hormones produced by endocrine glands have specific target tissues to induce a response

Basis of differentiation	Exocrine gland	Endocrine gland
Definition	Are glands with ducts which release material onto a surface (e.g. skin, respiratory epithelium, gastrointestinal tract)	Endocrine glands release substances directly into the bloodstream, and are known as ductless glands.
Secretory products	Sweat, mucus, sebum, enzymes	Hormones
Response time	Exhibit a rapid response since substances are secreted directly onto a surface	Response time is longer (seconds to days), since substances are secreted through the bloodstream to the target tissues
Process	Mainly regulates short term activities of the body (e.g. secreting sweat, saliva, tears, milk)	Mainly regulate long term activities of the target organs (e.g. development of brain of the brain and nervous system)
Target	Exocrine gland secretions function locally on the specific surface where they are released	Hormones produced by endocrine glands have specific target tissues to induce a response