Heterocrine

/ˌhɛtərəˈkraɪn/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or describing glands that produce secretions of different chemical types.

Etymology

From Greek hetero- (different) and krinein (to separate/secrete), describing endocrine glands that produce varied hormonal secretions.

Kelly Says

Your pancreas is heterocrine—it's both an endocrine gland (making insulin for your bloodstream) and an exocrine gland (making digestive enzymes for your intestines) at the same time, making it a biological rule-breaker!

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