Final answer:
The endocrine system is responsible for hormone secretion in the body, involving glands like the pituitary, adrenal, and thyroid. These hormones regulate various body functions and work closely with the nervous system to maintain homeostasis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The organ system of the body that functions in the secretion of regulatory molecules called hormones is the endocrine system. Hormones are crucial for maintaining homeostasis and are secreted by various glands such as the anterior pituitary, thymus, adrenal cortex, and gonads. The endocrine system works in conjunction with the nervous system to regulate the functions of other organ systems. Hormones circulate in the bloodstream and affect cells that have specific receptors for them, leading to changes in the functioning of the organ systems they target.
Additionally, it's important to differentiate between the endocrine system and the exocrine glands. Unlike endocrine glands that release hormones into the bloodstream, exocrine glands secrete substances onto body surfaces or into cavities through ducts.
The endocrine system is regulated by the hypothalamus, which controls the pituitary gland, also known as the 'master gland'. This system also includes other important glands like the thyroid, which secretes hormones regulating metabolism, and the pancreas, which produces insulin and glucagon to manage blood glucose levels.