Chap. 15 



CHEMICAL REGULATION ENDOCRINE GLANDS 



277 



Vfiginal Epithelium 



Proliferative Phase Secretory Phase 



Uterine Mucosa 



Fig. 15.19. Diagram showing some of the hormones produced in the anterior 

 lobe of the pituitary gland, with especial emphasis upon those taking part in the 

 regulation of the cyclic activities of the female reproductive organs. (Courtesy, 

 Patten: Human Embryology, ed. 2. Philadelphia, The Blakiston Co., 1953.) 



Uncertainties 



The pineal gland located in the middorsal part of the brain is less than half 

 an inch in length and is shaped like a pine cone from which it takes its name 

 (Fig. 15.1). It has excited curiosity for more than three centuries, since the 

 time when it was called the seat of the soul. Its large blood supply and appear- 

 ance have aroused the suspicion that it may be an endocrine gland and it is 

 often included in figures as an uncertain member of that group. No convincing 

 evidence has confirmed this or established any other function for it. 



Thymus Gland. The thymus lies beneath the breastbone in most mammals, 



