Review of Medical Physiology - William F. Ganong 2002

The Endocrine System, Metabolism, and Reproduction
Endocrine Functions of the Kidneys, Heart, and Pineal Gland
Introduction

In addition to the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, and Adrenal Glands, Pancreas, and Gonads, many other bodily structures possess endocrine Functions. Hormones that stimulate or inhibit the secretion of Anterior Pituitary Hormones are secreted by the Hypothalamus (see Chapter 14); furthermore, A large number of hormones are produced by the gastrointestinal mucosa (see Chapter 26). A wide variety of Cells produce cytokines, interleukins, and growth factors (see Chapters 1, 22, and 27). The Kidneys produce three hormones: 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (see Chapter 21), renin, and Erythropoietin. Natriuretic Peptides are substances produced by The Heart and other Tissues. They increase renal sodium excretion, and in excess, they inhibit the enzyme Na+-K+-ATPase. The Pineal Gland secretes melatonin, an indole that may also have an endocrine function. This chapter examines the endocrine Functions of the kidneys, heart, and pineal gland.



Last update: 10/08/2026

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