Question

Glands are derived from _____ tissue . a. epithelial b. connective c. muscle d. nervous

Short answer

Glands are derived from epithelial tissue.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Glands

Glands are specialized organs that secrete substances used in the body. They can be endocrine (secreting hormones directly into the bloodstream) or exocrine (secreting substances through ducts to the outside of the body or onto a surface).

Identify Characteristics of Tissue Types

Identify the main characteristics of each tissue type. Epithelial tissue covers body surfaces and lines hollow organs. Connective tissue supports and binds other tissues. Muscle tissue causes movement. Nervous tissue transmits electrical signals.

Determine Tissue Origin of Glands

Since glands secrete substances either through ducts or directly into the bloodstream, they are primarily associated with the surfaces and linings of organs. This characteristic aligns with epithelial tissue which covers and protects surfaces.

Conclude the Correct Tissue Type

Because glands derive from tissues that line the surfaces and are responsible for secretion, it makes logical sense that they would develop from epithelial tissue. Thus, glands are derived from epithelial tissue.

Key concepts

Gland Function

Glands are vital components of the body's various systems. These specialized organs are responsible for the secretion of substances, which play crucial roles in bodily functions. These secretions can include hormones, enzymes, mucous, or other essential fluids.

• Typically, glands are divided into two main types: endocrine and exocrine glands.
• Each type has a unique method for releasing its secretions, tailored to the body's needs.

Understanding how glands operate is essential for comprehending how the body maintains balance and responds to different stimuli.

Endocrine vs. Exocrine

While both types of glands play critical roles, they function in distinct ways.

• Endocrine glands are ductless. They release hormones directly into the bloodstream. This transport method allows hormones to reach targets all around the body, even far from the gland itself. Hormones like insulin, involved in regulating blood sugar levels, are produced by endocrine glands.


• Exocrine glands, on the other hand, deliver their secretions through ducts. These secretions commonly reach external or internal surfaces. For instance, sweat glands are exocrine, releasing sweat to the skin surface, while salivary glands secrete saliva into the mouth.

These differences illustrate the diverse strategies that glands employ to distribute their essential products to the body.

Tissue Identification

Identifying tissue types is fundamental in understanding where glands come from. Epithelial tissue stands out as the origin of most glands due to its primary functions.

• This tissue type is known for covering and lining body surfaces and cavities. This connection to surfaces is why epithelial tissue is associated with secretion.
• It acts as a barrier and interface with the environment, making it perfectly suited to form glands that secrete substances--either to surfaces or into the bloodstream.

By lining organs and forming boundaries, epithelial tissue is key in creating various glandular structures essential for health.