What are the hormones? Where are hormones made in the human body?

Hormones are chemical messengers produced by various glands and tissues in the human body. These substances are secreted directly into the bloodstream, where they travel to target tissues or organs and exert specific effects.

Here are some key points about hormones:

Production: Hormones are made in specialized glands such as the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, adrenal glands, pancreas, and gonads (ovaries and testes), as well as in certain tissues like the gastrointestinal tract and the placenta during pregnancy.

Types: Hormones can be classified into different types based on their chemical structure:

Peptide hormones: These are made from chains of amino acids and include insulin, glucagon, and many others.
Steroid hormones: These are derived from cholesterol and include hormones such as cortisol, estrogen, and testosterone.
Amino acid-derived hormones: These are derived from amino acids and include thyroid hormones (derived from tyrosine).
Functions: Hormones regulate various physiological processes including metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, mood, and more.

Regulation: Hormone production and release are tightly regulated by feedback mechanisms involving the endocrine system. These mechanisms ensure that hormone levels remain within a narrow range to maintain homeostasis in the body.