Hormones in Animals
Hormones are chemical messengers produced by endocrine glands and play a key role in coordinating and controlling various functions in animals. Unlike the rapid response system of the nervous system which uses electrical impulses, hormones operate through the bloodstream, allowing a widespread impact on multiple body systems and tissues. Hence, hormones are vital for initiating responses that require more time, such as growth, metabolism regulation, and emergency reactions (e.g., fight or flight).
Key Functions of Hormones
- Adrenaline: Produced by the adrenal glands, it is secreted during stressful situations and prepares the body for action by increasing heart rate, redirecting blood flow to muscles, and enhancing energy availability.
- Thyroxin: Secreted by the thyroid gland, it helps regulate metabolism at a cellular level, impacting the overall energy levels and growth.
- Insulin: Released by the pancreas, it regulates blood sugar levels, demonstrating the precision required in hormonal control.
These hormones exemplify how animal hormones are essential for both physiological responses and overall metabolic balance. Feedback mechanisms ensure that the levels of these hormones remain within required limits, thus maintaining homeostasis.