What are Hormones?

Hormones are biologically active substances produced by various glands in the body and carrying signals to regulate and maintain the normal functioning of the body. They are produced in minute doses and sent through the blood vessels, reaching the organs where they exert their effect.

The organs that produce hormones are called endocrine glands. These include the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, thyroid gland, pancreas, adrenal glands, gonads and some others. Each hormone performs its own unique function and interacts with specific receptors in the body.

Hormones can stimulate and slow down various processes in the body, as well as give rise to new processes. For example, the hormone insulin, produced by the pancreas, lowers blood glucose levels, and the hormone calcitonin, produced by the thyroid gland, is involved in the regulation of calcium metabolism in the body.

Some of the major hormones produced by the endocrine glands include:

1. Hormones of the hypothalamus: the release hormone oxytocin and vasopressin, which are involved in the regulation of social behavior, normal obstetrics, and fluid levels in the body.

2. Pituitary hormones: thyroid-stimulating hormone (TG), which stimulates the thyroid gland, gonadotropic hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which regulate sexual functions, as well as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which is involved in the regulation of adrenal function.

3. Thyroid hormones: thyroxine and triiodothyronine, which are involved in the regulation of metabolism, growth and development of the body, as well as calcitonin, which regulates calcium metabolism in the body.

4. Pancreatic hormones: insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood glucose levels.

5. Adrenal hormones: cortisol, aldosterone, epinephrine and norepinephrine, which are involved in the regulation of stress, blood pressure and metabolism.

6. Sex gland hormones: estrogens, testosterone, estradiol and progesterone, which regulate sexual functions and the development of the reproductive system.

In general, hormones play a key role in regulating and maintaining normal functioning of the body. Disturbances in their production or action can lead to various diseases. For example, too little insulin can lead to diabetes, and too much cortisol can cause Cushing's syndrome.

It is important to note that hormones can interact with each other and lead to complex reactions in the body. This allows the body to adapt to various changes in the external and internal environment.

In conclusion, hormones are essential biological signals that regulate and maintain normal functioning of the body. Their production and action are complex processes that interact with other body systems. Understanding the role of hormones in the body helps to better understand the mechanisms of health and disease, which can lead to more effective treatment of various pathologies.