The endocrine system is made up of glands that secrete hormones to regulate bodily functions like growth and metabolism. The major glands include the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenals, pancreas, gonads, thymus, and hypothalamus. Each gland produces specific hormones - for example, the thyroid produces thyroid hormones to regulate growth and metabolism, while the pancreas produces insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar levels. Together, the endocrine glands and their hormones coordinate a wide range of processes essential for survival.