What type of gland releases its secretory product by a process that involves the cell rupturing?

The type of gland that releases its secretory product by a process that involves the cell rupturing is classified as holocrine. In holocrine secretion, the entire cell disintegrates to release its contents. This is in contrast to other types of glandular secretion methods.

For instance, in apocrine secretion, a portion of the cell's cytoplasm is pinched off along with the secretion, but the cell itself remains intact. In merocrine secretion, the secretions are released through exocytosis without any damage to the cell, enabling it to continuously produce more secretions. Endocrine glands release their products (hormones) directly into the bloodstream, instead of through ducts, and do not involve cell rupture.

Therefore, holocrine glands are unique in that the secretion process involves the complete degradation of the secreting cell, which is a key feature that distinguishes them from other gland types.