Signaling molecules, chemical messengers, usually peptides or steroids, produced by one tissue and conveyed by the bloodstream to another to influence physiological activity, such as development, growth or metabolism. Hormones can also affect heart rate, blood flow, alterations in mental state, digestive and reproductive processes in the body.
Examples of human hormones:
Examples of human hormones:
- Adrenalin triggering "fight or flight" responses in the nervous system
- Androgens (including testosterone) responsible for male secondary sex characteristics
- Cortisone controlling the metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins
- Gastrin, secretin and related hormones regulating various stages of digestion
- Estrogen developing secondary female sexual characteristics & maintaining pregnancy
- Glucagon raising blood glucose levels
- Oxytocin aka "cuddle hormone" causing contraction of some smooth muscles
