What tissues or organs studied in this module have unexpected endocrine functions?
Many new hormonal discoveries have been made concerning other organs and tissues outside the endocrine system. One unique quality of muscle that has led to something really new and undiscovered about this tissue is its role as an endocrine organ. Although cardiac muscle is known to release hormones, this is a new role for skeletal and smooth muscle. Although we know being physically active has an effect on type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, dementia, and even depression, it was unclear exactly how exercise could be affecting these conditions. It turns out that skeletal muscles are releasing their own type of hormones called myokines.
This TED Talk link below is from Dr. Pedersen who spearheaded the study on myokines.
Skeletal Muscle as an Endocrine Organ. TED Talk. Retrieved May 30, 2018 from
1. What tissues or organs studied in this module have unexpected endocrine functions? Research one to describe and summarize the hormone(s) it releases in your initial post (consider the muscle tissue- cardiac, skeletal or smooth, fat tissue, bone tissue, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys).
2. Select one disorder that results from disruptions to the endocrine function(s) of this organ or tissue. Compare and contrast your findings with those of your classmates.
