Glandular epithelium

Glands are formed by one or more group of epithelial cells which undergo structural reorganization in order to produce secretion Classification of glands: Glands are mainly of two types: 1. Exocrine glands: The secretion of these glands are poured out through the ducts. e.g. Sweat gland, Salivary glands. 2. Endocrine glands (Ductless glands): These glands secrete hormones which are poured directly into the circulating system e.g., Thyroid gland, Pituitary gland Exocrine glands: Glands may be unicellular or multicellular. Unicellular glands: e.g. goblet cells Multicellular glands are further classified as below A. According to the shape of glands 1. Tubular- The gland is tubular or straight. 2. Alveolar or acinar- The gland is flask-shaped or rounded 3. Tubulo-alveolar- The combination of both tubular and alveolar is known as tubuloalveolar glands B. According to the branching of ducts 1. Simple gland: The secretion is poured out by an unbranched duct 2. Compound gland: The ducts are branched C. According to manner of secretion 1. Holocrine: The cells of the gland are destroyed and poured out along with the secretion e.g., Sebaceous gland 2. Apocrine: Apical portion of the cells are destroyed during the process of secretion e.g., Mammary gland 3. Merocrine: The cells are intact and the secretion is poured out through the intact cell membrane e.g., Sweat gland