Released directly into the bloodstream by organs known as endocrine glands, hormones circulate through the body until they make contact with their target areas.
The initial contact a hormone makes with a cell starts a series of important reactions carried out within that specific cell or tissue.
Some of the activities of hormones include:
  • Prompting cell or tissue growth and development
  • Helping with food metabolism
  • Initiating and maintaining sexual development and reproduction
  • Maintaining body temperature
  • Controlling thirst
  • Regulating mood and cognitive functioning
Humans, animals, and plants all produce hormones that play important roles in helping these organisms function properly.Read More