Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Catabolic hormones are substances produced by the body that help break down larger molecules into smaller ones, releasing energy in the process. They play a crucial role in metabolism and energy management within cells.
The sum of all chemical reactions that occur within an organism to maintain life, involving both the breakdown of substances (catabolism) and their synthesis (anabolism).
A hormone produced by the pancreas that stimulates the liver to increase blood glucose levels, acting as a catabolic agent by promoting the breakdown of glycogen to glucose.
Cortisol: A steroid hormone that regulates a wide range of processes throughout the body, including metabolism and the immune response, known for its role in the body's stress response and its ability to stimulate catabolism for energy release