The endocrine system communicates through chemical messengers called hormones, working more slowly than the nervous system but over longer durations. The major endocrine glands include the hypothalamus and pituitary which regulate other glands, thyroid which regulates metabolism, adrenals which regulate stress response and metabolism, pancreas which regulates blood sugar, and reproductive organs. Hormones work through feedback loops to maintain homeostasis. Disorders can result from too much or too little hormone production or response. The endocrine system allows for coordinated regulation of growth, metabolism, and reproduction.