AGGREGATE GLANDS Meaning and
Definition
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Aggregate glands are a type of exocrine gland found in the body that are responsible for producing and secreting substances to aid in bodily functions or maintenance. These glands are so named because they consist of a collection or group of individual secretory units, also known as acini, that coalesce to form a larger glandular structure. The individual acini within the aggregate gland are independent and have their own ducts or tubules leading to the surface or a specific organ.
The secretion produced by aggregate glands can vary depending on the specific function and location of the gland. These secretions may include enzymes, hormones, mucus, or other substances that are vital for various physiological processes. For example, in the respiratory system, the aggregate glands are responsible for secreting mucus that helps in trapping and removing foreign particles from the airways. In the digestive system, the aggregate glands present in the walls of the small intestine release digestive enzymes that aid in the breakdown of food.
Aggregate glands are found throughout the body, including in organs such as the pancreas, salivary glands, gastrointestinal tract, and respiratory system. They play a crucial role in maintaining the overall health and functioning of these organs by ensuring the secretion of necessary substances. These glands are regulated by various hormonal and neural signals that control their activity and secretion.
