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Hormones

Definition

Hormones are chemical messengers produced by specialized glands in multicellular organisms. They travel through body fluids (such as blood) to target cells or organs, where they regulate various physiological processes and behaviors.

Analogy

Think of hormones as traffic police officers directing traffic flow in a city. Just like how hormones regulate different activities in our body, traffic police officers control the movement and behavior of vehicles on roads.

Related terms

Endocrine Glands: Endocrine glands are specialized organs that produce and release hormones directly into the bloodstream. Examples include the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, and adrenal glands.

Target Cells/Organs: Target cells or organs are specific cells or tissues that have receptors for particular hormones. They respond to hormone binding by carrying out specific actions or changes in function.

Feedback Mechanisms: Feedback mechanisms are regulatory processes that control hormone levels in the body. They involve either positive feedback (amplifying hormone production) or negative feedback (reducing hormone production) to maintain homeostasis.