nounIntermediate
Definition
Chemical signaling molecule produced by specialized cells and transported through the bloodstream to regulate the function of distant target organs.

Detailed Explanation

Chemical signaling molecule produced by specialized cells and transported through the bloodstream to regulate the function of distant target organs. Many of the body's most important hormones are peptides: insulin (glucose metabolism), GLP-1 (incretin signaling), oxytocin (bonding/lactation), vasopressin (water balance), growth hormone (growth/metabolism), calcitonin (calcium regulation), and the angiotensins (blood pressure). Peptide hormones typically bind cell-surface receptors (unlike steroid hormones, which enter cells directly), triggering intracellular signaling cascades via G-proteins or kinases.

Key Facts

  • Chemical signaling molecule produced by specialized cells and transported through the bloodstream to regulate the function of distant target organs.
  • Many of the body's most important hormones are peptides: insulin (glucose metabolism), GLP-1 (incretin signaling), oxytocin (bonding/lactation), vasopressin (water balance), growth hormone (growth/metabolism), calcitonin (calcium regulation), and the angiotensins (blood pressure).
  • Peptide hormones typically bind cell-surface receptors (unlike steroid hormones, which enter cells directly), triggering intracellular signaling cascades via G-proteins or kinases.
Related Terms Insulin Oxytocin Vasopressin GLP-1 Angiotensin Ghrelin

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