Definition
incretion
noun
- the secretion of a substance (such as a hormone) directly into the bloodstream by an endocrine gland
Usage: medical/scientific term; often used in physiology and endocrinology
Examples
- The pancreas produces insulin through incretion, releasing it directly into the blood.
- Incretion of thyroid hormones regulates the body's metabolic rate.
- The adrenal glands control incretion of cortisol and adrenaline.
- Unlike sweat glands, endocrine glands function through incretion rather than ducts.
- Incretion disorders can lead to serious metabolic imbalances.