Hormones are chemical substances produced by endocrine glands that are transported via bloodstream to target organs where they exert effects. There are two main types of glands - endocrine glands that secrete hormones directly into bloodstream, and exocrine glands that secrete substances through ducts. Important endocrine glands include the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal and gonads. Hormone production is controlled by the nervous system, other hormones, and chemical substances. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood glucose levels, and diabetes occurs when insulin production or response is abnormal.