The endocrine system includes all the glands of the body. It acts like a communication network.

Glands release hormones that go to specific points called target cells. Hormones can make your heart beat faster or make your bones grow. They regulate many other bodily functions.

Some examples of endocrine glands are the pancreas and thyroid.

All vertebrate animals have the same endocrine glands. All vertebrate animals release hormones that are alike to control development and growth.