For the proper growth and development of the human body, for the regulation of energy levels and other vital body functions, and for the ability to produce offspring in male and female, as well as for the maintenance of various metabolic processes in the body, some special glands are required. These glands which are ductless in nature and which releases secretion directly into the bloodstream, are referred to as the endocrine glands. The endocrine glands secrete chemicals called hormones that regulate the functioning of some isolated tissues or organs. In retrospect, hormones are chemicals that are secreted by the endocrine glands which help in the regulation, for the proper functioning, and for maintaining balance in the body systems.
The human body contains some endocrine glands and a lot of hormones which are categorized as either proteins or steroids and which functions to perform various types of purpose. Here are some roles performed by hormones in the body.
The most important reproductive hormones in the body are the sex glands (gonads) which are the testicles in the male and ovaries in the female body. However, there are other categories of male and female hormones that aid in reproduction, example of such is the androgens and estrogens. The androgens are hormones that are well known in the males while the estrogens are popular with the females, though both the androgens and estrogens are present in every person. The female gonads generate other hormones called progesterone which is also vita for reproduction in female. The gonadal hormones perform significant roles in an individual sexual development and a sign of this hormone happens before the birth of a person.
Hormones’ secretion can help to maintain homeostasis (state of equilibrium) in the human body, and this secretion is influenced by gland secretion in reaction to other hormones or negative feedback mechanism. Hormones also help compose the human body as well as the physical and chemical process also known as metabolism by transmitting information from cells to cells.
Most hormones are proteins and some amount of this protein hormones usually react in the innermost part of the DNA cells in the body, example of such hormones is the lipid steroid hormones. Another is the glycoprotein hormones, which is a water soluble hormone that joins with their cell receptor at outward level, thereby resulting in quick action.
The functions of hormones cannot be really emphasized as hormones perform various functions such as growth, temperature regulation, reproduction, digestion and energy level.
REFERENCE:
http://www2.hu-berlin.de/sexology/ATLAS_EN/html/the_role_of_hormones.html
http://www.helium.com/items/2266117-the-role-of-hormones-in-the-human-body
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hormones
