Bodily secretions

Bodily secretions are substances produced and released by cells or glands, including fluids that lubricate surfaces, regulate temperature, carry signals, or aid digestion.

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Exocrine gland: A gland that releases its products through ducts onto a body surface or into a body cavity. Exocrine glands produce many familiar secretions, including sweat, saliva, and digestive fluids.
Saliva: A fluid made by salivary glands that moistens food and begins digestion in the mouth. Saliva combines lubrication, antimicrobial defense, and the first stages of digestion.
Autonomic nervous system: The nervous system division that regulates involuntary functions, including gland activity. Autonomic signals rapidly alter secretion by glands such as salivary and sweat glands.
Thermoregulation: The processes by which an organism maintains its internal temperature within viable limits. Sweat evaporation is a major human cooling mechanism.
Endocrine gland: A ductless gland that releases hormones into the bloodstream or surrounding tissue. Endocrine release contrasts with secretions sent through ducts to surfaces or cavities.
Sweat: A fluid produced by sweat glands, chiefly composed of water and electrolytes. Evaporating sweat cools the body, while its composition also reflects gland activity.
Hormone: A signaling molecule released by cells that changes the activity of target cells. Hormones can regulate secretion, including water and electrolyte handling by glands.
Mucociliary clearance: The airway process in which mucus traps particles and cilia move them toward the throat. This coordinated secretion-and-transport system helps keep the lungs clear.
Secretory cell: A specialized cell that synthesizes and releases substances such as enzymes, mucus, or hormones. Secretory cells are the producers of bodily substances, whether organized into glands or not.
Mucus: A slippery secretion rich in mucins that coats and protects many epithelial surfaces. Mucus traps particles and reduces friction across respiratory, digestive, and other surfaces.