Question

Which gland is known as mixed gland?

Answer 1

Hint: A gland can be called mixed gland when it has both endocrine and exocrine functions. As a part of endocrine, the gland secretes hormones into the bloodstream. As an exocrine gland it secretes certain enzymes or other substances to the surface of the organ through ducts to aid in other functions of the body. Mixed glands are also known as heterocrine glands. There are three mixed glands in the body.

Complete explanation:
Mixed glands have both endocrine and exocrine properties. Exocrine glands are glands that secrete substances to the epithelial surface of the organ through a duct. Some of the exocrine products secreted are enzymes, mucus, saliva and sebum. Endocrine glands secrete substances directly into the bloodstream. They do not contain ducts. They only secrete hormones.
In the human body, pancreas, testes and ovaries are said to be mixed glands. Out of this, the pancreas is the most important gland. They have both endocrine and exocrine properties.
In pancreas, the exocrine part secretes digestive enzymes that help to digest food, especially the protein. The enzymes secreted by the pancreas include trypsin, amylase and lipase.
The endocrine part of the pancreas secretes insulin hormone. It is secreted directly into the blood to control blood sugar levels. Insulin is produced by the pancreatic cells called Islets of Langerhans. Pancreas also secrete another hormone called glucagon which is also involved in the regulation of blood sugar.

Note:
Testes and ovaries are also the mixed glands. The testes of the male secrete sex hormone called testosterone. The ovaries of the female secrete oestrogen and progesterone. This is the endocrine part of the organs. The exocrine part of the testis and the ovary produce reproductive cells called gametes. Male gametes are produced through spermatogenesis and female gametes are produced through oogenesis.