The largest purely endocrine gland in the body is the thyroid gland. It is located in the front of the neck, just below the Adam’s apple and wraps around the trachea.
The thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism, energy levels, and overall growth and development. These hormones include thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which play a crucial role in how the body utilizes energy and maintains proper organ function.
In addition to its size, the thyroid is unique because it does not have any ducts through which its hormones are secreted. Instead, it releases hormones directly into the bloodstream, distinguishing it as a purely endocrine gland. This is in contrast to exocrine glands, which secrete their products through ducts to specific locations.