What is the structure of the endocrine system of vertebrates?

All vertebrates, or animals with backbones, have a well-developed and highly organized endocrine system. The classic endocrine system consists of the pituitary, the pineal, the thyroid, the thymus, the pancreas, a pair of adrenals (each adrenal acts as two glands—the adrenal cortex produces unique hormones and functions independently of the adrenal medulla), a pair of parathyroids, and a pair of ovaries or testes. Most tissues in the body produce hormones that help the central nervous system integrate needs and function of the organism. Adipose tissue hormones signal the level of stored energy to the brain, which determines the satiety or hunger necessary to maintain energy stores. Endocrine tissue in the gastrointestinal tract readies the system for the digestive process. During a pregnancy, the placental tissue assumes an endocrine function. Although the kidneys do not produce a hormone directly, they release an enzyme that converts a blood protein into a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production.

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