Hormone

Name:
Hormone
Detailed information:
An organic compound (peptide, steroid) synthesized in small amounts by an endocrine tissue and carried in the blood to another tissue, where it acts as a messenger to regulate the function of the target tissue.Hormones regulate such physiological processes as metabolism, growth, reproduction, molting, pigmentation, and osmotic balance. They are sometimes called “chemical messengers.” Hormones produced by one species usually show similar action in other species. They vary widely in chemical nature, some are steroids–estrogen, progesterone, cortisone–while others are amino acids (e.g., thyroxine), polypeptides (vasopressin), low-molecular-weight proteins (insulin), and conjugated proteins. Amino acid and steroid hormones have been isolated and many (including insulin) have been synthesized and are manufactured for medical purposes. Other types are made directly from the endocrine organs of animals.