Functions of hormones in the body, the main endocrine organs. Major human hormones

Biologically active substance (BAS), physiologically active substance (PAS) - a substance that in small quantities (mcg, ng) has a pronounced physiological effect on various functions of the body.

Hormone- a physiologically active substance produced or specialized endocrine cells, released into the internal environment of the body (blood, lymph) and has a distant effect on target cells.

Hormone - it is a signaling molecule secreted by endocrine cells that, through interaction with specific receptors on target cells, regulates their functions. Since hormones are information carriers, they, like other signaling molecules, have high biological activity and cause responses in target cells at very low concentrations (10 -6 - 10 -12 M/l).

Target cells (target tissues, target organs) - cells, tissues or organs that have specific receptors for a given hormone. Some hormones have a single target tissue, while others have effects throughout the body.

Table. Classification of physiologically active substances

Properties of hormones

Hormones have a number common properties. They are usually formed by specialized endocrine cells. Hormones have a selective action, which is achieved by binding to specific receptors located on the surface of cells (membrane receptors) or inside them (intracellular receptors), and triggering a cascade of processes of intracellular hormonal signal transmission.

The sequence of events of hormonal signal transmission can be represented as a simplified scheme “hormone (signal, ligand) -> receptor -> second (secondary) messenger -> effector structures of the cell -> physiological response of the cell”. Most hormones lack species specificity (with the exception of ), which makes it possible to study their effects in animals, as well as to use hormones obtained from animals to treat sick people.

There are three variants of intercellular interaction with the help of hormones:

• endocrine(distant), when they are delivered to target cells from the place of production by blood;
• paracrine- hormones diffuse to the target cell from a nearby endocrine cell;
• autocrine - hormones act on the producer cell, which is also a target cell for it.

According to their chemical structure, hormones are divided into three groups:

• peptides (the number of amino acids up to 100, such as thyrotropin-releasing hormone, ACTH) and proteins (insulin, growth hormone, etc.);
• derivatives of amino acids: tyrosine (thyroxine, adrenaline), tryptophan - melatonin;
• steroids, cholesterol derivatives (female and male sex hormones, aldosterone, cortisol, calcitriol) and retinoic acid.

According to their function, hormones are divided into three groups:

• effector hormones acting directly on target cells;
• pituitary tron ​​hormones that control the function of peripheral endocrine glands;
• hypothalamic hormones that regulate the secretion of hormones by the pituitary gland.

Table. Types of action of hormones

Hormones circulate in the blood in a free (active form) and bound (inactive form) state with plasma proteins or formed elements. Free hormones are biologically active. Their content in the blood depends on the rate of secretion, the degree of binding, capture and metabolic rate in tissues (binding to specific receptors, destruction or inactivation in target cells or hepatocytes), removal with urine or bile.

Table. Physiologically active substances discovered recently

A number of hormones can undergo chemical transformations in target cells into more active forms. So, the hormone "thyroxine", undergoing deiodination, turns into a more active form - triiodothyronine. The male sex hormone testosterone in target cells can not only turn into a more active form - dehydrotestosterone, but also into the female sex hormones of the estrogen group.

The action of the hormone on the target cell is due to the binding, stimulation of a receptor specific to it, after which the hormonal signal is transmitted to the intracellular cascade of transformations. Signal transmission is accompanied by its multiple amplification, and the action of a small number of hormone molecules on a cell can be accompanied by a powerful response of target cells. Activation of the receptor by the hormone is also accompanied by the activation of intracellular mechanisms that stop the cell's response to the action of the hormone. These may be mechanisms that reduce the sensitivity (desensitization / adaptation) of the receptor to the hormone; mechanisms that dephosphorylate intracellular enzyme systems, etc.

Receptors for hormones, as well as for other signaling molecules, are localized on the cell membrane or inside the cell. Cell membrane receptors (1-TMS, 7-TMS and ligand-dependent ion channels) interact with hydrophilic (lyiophobic) hormones, for which the cell membrane is impermeable. They are catecholamines, melatonin, serotonin, protein-peptide hormones.

Hormones of a hydrophobic (lipophilic) nature diffuse through the plasma membrane and bind to intracellular receptors. These receptors are divided into cytosolic (receptors for steroid hormones - gluco- and mineralocorticoids, androgens and progestins) and nuclear (receptors for thyroid iodine-containing hormones, calcitriol, estrogens, retinoic acid). Cytosolic and estrogen receptors are protein bound heat shock(HSP), which prevents their penetration into the nucleus. The interaction of the hormone with the receptor leads to the separation of HSP, the formation of the hormone-receptor complex, and the activation of the receptor. The hormone-receptor complex moves to the nucleus, where it interacts with strictly defined hormone-sensitive (recognizing) DNA regions. This is accompanied by a change in the activity (expression) of certain genes that control the synthesis of proteins in the cell and other processes.

According to the use of certain intracellular pathways for the transmission of a hormonal signal, the most common hormones can be divided into a number of groups (Table 8.1).

Table 8.1. Intracellular mechanisms and pathways of action of hormones

Hormones control various reactions of target cells and through them - the physiological processes of the body. The physiological effects of hormones depend on their content in the blood, the number and sensitivity of receptors, and the state of post-receptor structures in target cells. Under the action of hormones, activation or inhibition of the energy and plastic metabolism of cells, the synthesis of various substances, including protein substances (metabolic action of hormones) can occur; change in the rate of cell division, its differentiation (morphogenetic action), initiation of programmed cell death (apoptosis); triggering and regulation of contraction and relaxation of smooth myocytes, secretion, absorption (kinetic action); changing the state of ion channels, accelerating or inhibiting the generation of electrical potentials in pacemakers (corrective action), facilitating or inhibiting the influence of other hormones (reactogenic action), etc.

Table. The distribution of the hormone in the blood

The rate of occurrence in the body and the duration of responses to the action of hormones depend on the type of stimulated receptors and the rate of metabolism of the hormones themselves. Changes in physiological processes can be observed after several tens of seconds and last for a short time upon stimulation of plasma membrane receptors (for example, vasoconstriction and increased blood pressure blood under the action of adrenaline) or be observed after several tens of minutes and last for hours with stimulation of nuclear receptors (for example, increased metabolism in cells and an increase in oxygen consumption by the body during stimulation of thyroid receptors with triiodothyronine).

Table. Time of action of physiologically active substances

Since the same cell can contain receptors for different hormones, it can simultaneously be a target cell for several hormones and other signaling molecules. The action of one hormone on a cell is often combined with the influence of other hormones, mediators, and cytokines. In this case, a number of signal transduction pathways can be triggered in target cells, as a result of the interaction of which an increase or inhibition of the cell response can be observed. For example, norepinephrine and can simultaneously act on a smooth myocyte of the vascular wall, summing up their vasoconstrictive effect. The vasoconstrictive effect of vasopressin can be eliminated or weakened by the simultaneous action of bradykinin or nitric oxide on smooth myocytes of the vascular wall.

Regulation of the formation and secretion of hormones

Regulation of the formation and secretion of hormones is one of essential functions and nervous systems of the body. Among the mechanisms of regulation of the formation and secretion of hormones, there are the influence of the central nervous system, "triple" hormones, the influence of the concentration of hormones in the blood through the channels of negative feedback, the influence of the end effects of hormones on their secretion, the influence of daily and other rhythms.

Nervous regulation carried out in various endocrine glands and cells. This is the regulation of the formation and secretion of hormones by the neurosecretory cells of the anterior hypothalamus in response to the flow of nerve impulses to it from various areas CNS. These cells have a unique ability to be excited and transform excitation into the formation and secretion of hormones that stimulate (releasing hormones, liberins) or inhibit (statins) the secretion of hormones by the pituitary gland. For example, with an increase in the flow of nerve impulses to the hypothalamus under conditions of psychoemotional arousal, hunger, pain, exposure to heat or cold, during infection and other emergency conditions, the neurosecretory cells of the hypothalamus release corticotropin-releasing hormone into the portal vessels of the pituitary gland, which enhances the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone. (ACTH) by the pituitary gland.

ANS has a direct effect on the formation and secretion of hormones. With an increase in the tone of the SNS, the secretion of triple hormones by the pituitary gland increases, the secretion of catecholamines by the adrenal medulla, thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland, and insulin secretion decreases. With an increase in the tone of the PSNS, the secretion of insulin and gastrin increases and the secretion of thyroid hormones is inhibited.

Regulation by tron ​​hormones of the pituitary gland used to control the formation and secretion of hormones by peripheral endocrine glands (thyroid, adrenal cortex, gonads). The secretion of tropic hormones is under the control of the hypothalamus. Tropic hormones get their name from their ability to bind (have affinity) to receptors on target cells that form individual peripheral endocrine glands. Tropic hormone to thyrocytes thyroid gland called thyrotropin or thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), to the endocrine cells of the adrenal cortex - adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Tropic hormones to the endocrine cells of the gonads are called: lutropin or luteinizing hormone (LH) - to the Leydig cells, the corpus luteum; follitropin or follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) - to follicle cells and Sertoli cells.

Tropic hormones, when their level in the blood increases, repeatedly stimulate the secretion of hormones by the peripheral endocrine glands. They may also have other effects on them. So, for example, TSH increases blood flow in the thyroid gland, activates metabolic processes in thyrocytes, their capture of iodine from the blood, accelerates the processes of synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormones. With an excess amount of TSH, hypertrophy of the thyroid gland is observed.

Feedback regulation used to control the secretion of hormones from the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Its essence lies in the fact that the neurosecretory cells of the hypothalamus have receptors and are target cells for the hormones of the peripheral endocrine gland and the triple hormone of the pituitary gland, which controls the secretion of hormones by this peripheral gland. Thus, if TSH secretion increases under the influence of hypothalamic thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), the latter will bind not only to thyrocyte receptors, but also to receptors of neurosecretory cells of the hypothalamus. In the thyroid gland, TSH stimulates the production of thyroid hormones, while in the hypothalamus it inhibits further secretion of TRH. The relationship between the level of TSH in the blood and the processes of formation and secretion of TRH in the hypothalamus is called short loop feedback.

The secretion of TRH in the hypothalamus is also influenced by the level of thyroid hormones. If their concentration in the blood increases, they bind to the thyroid hormone receptors of neurosecretory cells of the hypothalamus and inhibit the synthesis and secretion of TRH. The relationship between the level of thyroid hormones in the blood and the processes of formation and secretion of TRH in the hypothalamus is called long loop feedback. There is experimental evidence that the hormones of the hypothalamus not only regulate the synthesis and release of pituitary hormones, but also inhibit their own release, which is defined by the concept ultra short loop feedback.

The totality of the glandular cells of the pituitary, hypothalamus and peripheral endocrine glands and the mechanisms of their mutual influence on each other were called systems or axes of the pituitary - hypothalamus - endocrine gland. The systems (axes) of the pituitary gland - hypothalamus - thyroid gland are distinguished; pituitary - hypothalamus - adrenal cortex; pituitary - hypothalamus - sex glands.

Influence of end effects hormones on their secretion takes place in the islet apparatus of the pancreas, C-cells of the thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, hypothalamus, etc. This is demonstrated by the following examples. An increase in blood glucose stimulates the secretion of insulin, and a decrease stimulates the secretion of glucagon. These hormones inhibit each other's secretion by a paracrine mechanism. With an increase in the level of Ca 2+ ions in the blood, the secretion of calcitonin is stimulated, and with a decrease - parathyrin. The direct effect of the concentration of substances on the secretion of hormones that control their level is rapid and effective way maintain the concentration of these substances in the blood.

Among the considered mechanisms of regulation of hormone secretion, their final effects include the regulation of secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) by the cells of the posterior hypothalamus. The secretion of this hormone is stimulated by osmotic pressure blood, such as fluid loss. Reduced diuresis and fluid retention in the body under the action of ADH lead to a decrease in osmotic pressure and inhibition of ADH secretion. A similar mechanism is used to regulate the secretion of natriuretic peptide by atrial cells.

Influence of circadian and other rhythms on the secretion of hormones takes place in the hypothalamus, adrenal glands, sex, pineal glands. An example of the influence of the circadian rhythm is the daily dependence of the secretion of ACTH and corticosteroid hormones. Their lowest level in the blood is observed at midnight, and the highest - in the morning after waking up. The highest level of melatonin is recorded at night. The influence of the lunar cycle on the secretion of sex hormones in women is well known.

Definition of hormones

secretion of hormones the entry of hormones into the internal environment of the body. Polypeptide hormones accumulate in granules and are secreted by exocytosis. Steroid hormones do not accumulate in the cell and are secreted immediately after synthesis by diffusion through the cell membrane. The secretion of hormones in most cases has a cyclic, pulsating character. The frequency of secretion is from 5-10 minutes to 24 hours or more (a common rhythm is about 1 hour).

Bound form of the hormone- the formation of reversible, non-covalently bonded complexes of hormones with plasma proteins and shaped elements. The degree of binding of various hormones varies greatly and is determined by their solubility in blood plasma and the presence of a transport protein. For example, 90% of cortisol, 98% of testosterone and estradiol, 96% of triiodothyronine and 99% of thyroxine bind to transport proteins. The bound form of the hormone cannot interact with receptors and forms a reserve that can be quickly mobilized to replenish the pool. free hormone.

free form hormone- a physiologically active substance in the blood plasma in a protein-free state, capable of interacting with receptors. The bound form of the hormone is in dynamic equilibrium with the pool of free hormone, which in turn is in equilibrium with the hormone bound to receptors in target cells. Most poly peptide hormones, with the exception of somatotropin and oxytocin, circulates in low concentrations in the blood in a free state, without binding to proteins.

Metabolic transformations of the hormone - its chemical modification in target tissues or other formations, causing a decrease / increase in hormonal activity. The most important place the exchange of hormones (their activation or inactivation) is the liver.

Hormone metabolism rate - the intensity of its chemical transformation, which determines the duration of circulation in the blood. The half-life of catecholamines and polypeptide hormones is several minutes, and that of thyroid and steroid hormones is from 30 minutes to several days.

hormone receptor- a highly specialized cellular structure that is part of the plasma membranes, cytoplasm or nuclear apparatus of the cell and forms a specific complex compound with the hormone.

The organ specificity of the action of the hormone - responses of organs and tissues to physiologically active substances; they are strictly specific and cannot be called by other compounds.

Feedback- the influence of the level of circulating hormone on its synthesis in endocrine cells. A long feedback chain is the interaction of the peripheral endocrine gland with the pituitary, hypothalamic centers and with the suprahypothalamic regions of the central nervous system. A short feedback chain - a change in the secretion of the pituitary tron ​​hormone, modifies the secretion and release of statins and liberins of the hypothalamus. An ultrashort feedback chain is an interaction within an endocrine gland in which the secretion of a hormone affects the secretion and release of itself and other hormones from that gland.

negative Feedback - an increase in the level of the hormone, leading to inhibition of its secretion.

positive feedback- an increase in the level of the hormone, which causes stimulation and the appearance of a peak of its secretion.

Anabolic hormones - physiologically active substances that promote the formation and renewal of the structural parts of the body and the accumulation of energy in it. Such substances include gonadotropic hormones pituitary (follitropin, lutropin), sex steroid hormones (androgens and estrogens), growth hormone (somatotropin), placental chorionic gonadotropin, insulin.

Insulin- a protein substance produced in β-cells of the islets of Langerhans, consisting of two polypeptide chains (A-chain - 21 amino acids, B-chain - 30), which reduces blood glucose levels. The first protein whose primary structure was completely determined by F. Sanger in 1945-1954.

catabolic hormones- physiologically active substances that contribute to the breakdown of various substances and structures of the body and the release of energy from it. These substances include corticotropin, glucocorticoids (cortisol), glucagon, high concentrations of thyroxine and adrenaline.

Thyroxine (tetraiodothyronine) - an iodine-containing derivative of the amino acid tyrosine, produced in the follicles of the thyroid gland, which increases the intensity of basal metabolism, heat production, which affects the growth and differentiation of tissues.

Glucagon - a polypeptide produced in a-cells of the islets of Langerhans, consisting of 29 amino acid residues, stimulating the breakdown of glycogen and increasing blood glucose levels.

Corticosteroid hormones - compounds formed in cortex adrenal glands. Depending on the number of carbon atoms in the molecule, they are divided into C 18 -steroids - female sex hormones - estrogens, C 19 -steroids - male sex hormones - androgens, C 21 -steroids - corticosteroid hormones proper, which have a specific physiological effect.

Catecholamines - derivatives of pyrocatechin, actively involved in physiological processes in the body of animals and humans. The catecholamines include epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

Sympathoadrenal system - chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla and the preganglionic fibers of the sympathetic nervous system innervating them, in which catecholamines are synthesized. Chromaffin cells are also found in the aorta, carotid sinus, and within and near the sympathetic ganglia.

Biogenic amines- a group of nitrogen-containing organic compounds formed in the body by decarboxylation of amino acids, i.e. cleavage from them of the carboxyl group - COOH. Many of the biogenic amines (histamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, adrenaline, dopamine, tyramine, etc.) have a pronounced physiological effect.

Eicosanoids - physiologically active substances, derivatives predominantly arachidonic acid providing a variety of physiological effects and divided into groups: prostaglandins, prostacyclins, thromboxanes, levuglandins, leukotrienes, etc.

Regulatory peptides- macromolecular compounds, which are a chain of amino acid residues connected by a peptide bond. Regulatory peptides with up to 10 amino acid residues are called oligopeptides, from 10 to 50 - polypeptides, more than 50 - proteins.

Antihormone- a protective substance produced by the body with prolonged administration of protein hormonal drugs. The formation of an antihormone is an immunological reaction to the introduction of a foreign protein from outside. In relation to its own hormones, the body does not form antihormones. However, substances similar in structure to hormones can be synthesized, which, when introduced into the body, act as antimetabolites of hormones.

Hormone antimetabolites- physiologically active compounds that are similar in structure to hormones and enter into competitive, antagonistic relationships with them. Antimetabolites of hormones are able to take their place in the physiological processes occurring in the body, or block hormone receptors.

Tissue hormone (autocoid, hormone local action) — a physiologically active substance produced by non-specialized cells and having a predominantly local effect.

Neurohormone- a physiologically active substance produced by nerve cells.

The effector hormone a physiologically active substance that has a direct effect on cells and target organs.

throne hormone- a physiologically active substance that acts on other endocrine glands and regulates their functions.

In the body there is a system of endocrine glands - the endocrine system.

Unlike the glands external secretion endocrine glands do not have ducts, so their secrets (what they synthesize) go directly into the blood, while external secretion glands have ducts and their secrets go into external environment (sweat glands, salivary glands)

Products - hormones - endocrine glands, and hormones - glands of external secretion

The system functions under the control of the central nervous system.

The products of the endocrine glands are hormones.

Hormones- biologically active compounds, which in small quantities have a high physiological effect.

Most of these hormones are not species specific.

Each hormone has its own "target" - a tissue or organ, the functions of which it regulates.

These hormones are relatively quickly destroyed in the tissues.

When one or another endocrine gland is removed, tissue life is disrupted.

The introduction of extracts that replace the secrets of one or another gland restores the regulated tissue or organ, the transplantation of the corresponding tissue has the same effect.

The central gland of internal secretion is the pituitary gland - an appendage of the hypothalamus of the diencephalon.

The pituitary gland is closely connected with the hypothalamus, this connection is both functional and vascular. + nervous!

The pituitary gland functions under the influence of the hypothalamus.

The pituitary gland consists of 3 parts:

v anterior lobe - glandular tissue, called - adenohypophysis

`6 hormones are produced:

• growth hormone (GH) growth hormone, somatotropin),
• adenocorticotropic - regulates the function of the adrenal gland - ACTH (adenocorticotropin),
• tiaritroprny hormone - thyroid function (teriatropin - TSH),
• LTH - regulation of milk production, prolactin (lactotropic hormone),
• 2 ganadotropic hormones - FSH and LH (FSH - follicle-stimulating hormone - stimulates the growth and development of follicles in the ovaries, LH - luteinizing hormone - stimulates ovulation of follicles and the formation of yellow telcyclic or yellow bodies of pregnancy in their place)

secretion of each of these hormones is controlled by the hypothalamus.

For each hormone, its own hormones are produced there, while the growth hormone is produced by the hormone of stimulation and suppression of its secretion, depending on the state of the body. (BUT EITHER THAT OR THIS!)

This relationship between the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland is regulated by the cerebral cortex.

v rear end- neurohypophysis - nervous tissue

2 hormones are produced:

§ ADH - antidirioriutic,

§ oxytocin (this hormone stimulates the contraction of the smooth muscles of the uterus, and the muscle elements of the mammary gland)

v middle part - intermediate lobe - includes elements of both glandular and nervous tissue

1 hormone - intermedin MSG - milatocyte-stimulating hormone - regulates cells

General properties of hormones:

specificity - each hormone has its own gland and its target

physiological activity

rapid destruction of hormones in tissues

remote action - works at a great distance

hormone molecules are small

1. Steroid hormones (sex)

2. Hormones - derivatives of amino acids - thyroxine (thyroid gland), adrenaline (adrenal medulla)

3. Protein hormones or polypeptide - growth hormone, vasotrypsin, insulin

Hormones are classified according to the type of effect on the body:

1 group. metabolic hormones.

They affect metabolism, the activity of enzymes, the permeability of cell membranes.

2 group. morphogenetic hormones.

Stimulate growth, development, tissue differentiation and metamorphosis processes.

3 group. Kinetic hormones and corrective hormones

These hormones affect individual target organs. For example, the heart, blood vessels, intestines. By changing the functions of these organs.

The mechanism of action of hormones.

Hormones that change the permeability of cell membranes for various substances

Hormones that interact with receptor proteins on the surface of membranes do not penetrate into cells!

Hormones that penetrate inside the cell and combine with receptor proteins and interact with the genetic apparatus of the cell. They affect the synthesis of RNA, the synthesis of enzymes.

Functions of other endocrine glands.

Thyroid hormones.

Derivatives of thyronine and iodine.

Triiodothyronine, tetraiodothyronine (thyroxine), thyrocalcitanine.

The first two hormones perform the following functions:

o stimulate metabolism - splitting B, F, U

o stimulate oxidative processes in the body

o participate in the regulation of body temperature

o participate in growth and development, tissue differentiation

o regulate the processes of metamorphosis

o needed for bone formation, hair growth

o necessary for normal functioning nervous tissue

o stimulates cardiac activity

o activates the functions of the sympathetic nervous system

Regulated by organs in the hypothalamus.

The secretion of these hormones is regulated not only nerve links but also humoral factors

3rd hormone

Decreased levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood

ü Activates the functions of osteoblasts and inhibits the functions of osteoclasts

ü Increase the excretion of phosphorus in the urine

Parathyroid glands (parathyroid glands)

Steam gland.

Parat-hormone.

ü Raises the level of calcium in the blood,

ü reduces the level of phosphorus,

enhances the absorption of calcium in the intestines,

Stimulates calcium reabsorption in the kidneys

The parathyroid glands are regulated neuro-humorally-adrenal gland (steam gland).

It consists of two zones: the brain (-adrenaline and norepinephrine - enhance the work of the heart, stimulate metabolic processes in cells, increase the tone of skeletal muscles, suppress the tone of the muscles of the intestines and stomach, suppress the secretion of digestive juices, relax the bronchi, increase the "receptors" of hearing and vision) and cortical(-3 group hormone:

ü glucocorticoids - participate in metabolic processes, break down B, F, U.

ü Mineralcorticoids - are involved in the regulation of mineral metabolism

ü corticosteroids: sex steroids-adrenals, compensate for the lack of their own sex hormones - during pregnancy and ketosteroids - contribute to the implementation of functions related to the adaptation of the body

It's no secret that many processes in the body are controlled by hormones. Both health and appearance depend on them. They are simply necessary to maintain balance throughout the body.

Each of the hormones has a role to play.

Therefore, it is so important that their level is normal. To do this, from time to time it is necessary to take an analysis for hormones.

What hormones and how are they produced?

Hormones- these are peculiar signals of internal secretion, with the help of which the work of all processes and organs in the human body is regulated.

Through the blood they are transported throughout the body. The endocrine cells of the glands and certain tissues are responsible for the production of hormones.

What functions can hormones?

They are necessary to maintain performance and provide a response to external and internal stimuli.

Thyroid hormones control the rate of development chemical reactions in body.

With an increased level of hormones in the blood, there is nervous excitability, there are problems with the heart rhythm and disturbances digestive system. Shaking hands syndrome may occur. And with a lack of a person feels weakness, drowsiness and a depressive state appear. Often there are problems with the nervous system and heart. It is important to ensure adequate iodine intake.

The daily norm is 150-200 micrograms.

Adrenal hormones important for the normal functioning of the body. For example, cortisol performs a protective role for cells. However, if its norm is exceeded, then immunity decreases and diabetes mellitus develops.

Often there is an ulcer. The rate of cortisol in the blood varies depending on gender and time of day. For women, it is acceptable in the morning: from 140 to 620 nmol / l. And in the evening: 48-290 nmol / l. But for men, the norm is considered: in the first half of the day: 170-535 nmol / l. In the evening: 65-330 nmol/l.

3. And they are responsible for reproductive functions genitalhormones namely estrogen and testosterone. For women, it is extremely important that the level of estrogen is normal.

With its deficiency, osteoporosis occurs, and mood swings are observed. Often this causes infertility and lack of sexual desire.

AT childbearing period it is worth focusing on the following numbers: 11-191 pg / ml.

For men, it is especially important that testosterone is normal. This hormone regulates potency and is responsible for the production of spermatozoa. There should be such an indicator of free testosterone in men: 5.5 - 42 pg / ml.

All hormones produced endocrine gland and then circulate freely in the blood. Further, target cells interact with them with the help of protein receptors.

They are necessary for hormones to function in the body.

What hormones do people have?

There are two main groups: steroids and peptides. Steroids are produced by the adrenal glands and sex glands thanks to cholesterol. The physical development of a person throughout the entire sexual life and until old age depends on steroid hormones.

Peptide hormones are important for good metabolism.

They contain a number of amino acids. To isolate them, you need enough squirrel. A typical member of this group is hormone growth. It is necessary for those who want to increase muscle mass. With its lack, there is a problem with burning excess fat. Insulin depends on peptide hormones, which transforms sugar into energy.

The role of hormones in the human body

Hormones are what makes us special and different from the rest. They determine our physical and mental features. We will grow up tall or not, full or thin.

Hormones are biologically active substances that are secreted by the glands of the internal or mixed secretion directly into the blood or into the tissue fluid and with the blood flow are carried throughout the body.

The main functions of hormones are: humoral regulation of metabolism and other life processes, mainly through their effect on enzyme activity, vitamin metabolism, on the growth of tissues and the whole organism as a whole, on gene activity, on sex formation and reproduction, on adaptability to the environment, on maintenance of constancy internal environment organism.

High biological activity of hormones (affects vital processes in very low concentrations: 1 g of the active substance is enough to cause molting in 2x108 insects), influence on the vital activity of organs located far from the place of their formation.

The specificity of the action of hormones (influence on strictly defined cells, tissues, organs), distribution throughout the body, the need for their constant entry into the blood due to rapid destruction.

The relationship of humoral and nervous regulation of functions in the body.

Our hormones influence every aspect of our lives, from conception to death. They will influence our growth sexual development, the formation of our desires, on the metabolism in the body, on the strength of the muscles, on the sharpness of the mind, behavior, even on our sleep.

The word "hormone" often evokes frivolous associations: for some, they stand out in excess, and even play somewhere.

But we'll talk about how hormones play another time. Now - about how they work.

This amazing control system arose in the course of evolution, probably a little later than multicellularity and simultaneously with the circulatory system.

In fact, even single-celled beings are not indifferent to chemical signals coming from outside, including from other cells. But only multicellular organisms could develop a sophisticated multi-level regulation, known as the endocrine system.

It controls precisely those functions of the body that are most often beyond the control of the will and consciousness, from processing nutrients to falling in love, from the growth of arms, legs and torso to mood swings, from conceiving a child to mysterious activities internal organs, which many of their owners and by name are not known.

Rather, on the contrary: these functions are not subject to the will, because they are controlled not by the nervous, but by the endocrine system. Special cells in the glands and tissues produce hormones (from the Greek hormamo - set in motion, induce). These substances are released into the extracellular space, into the blood and lymph, and with their currents they enter the "targets" - organs and cells and produce desired effects. It is noteworthy that they work at very low concentrations - up to 10-11 mol / l.

Hormones (from the Greek.

hormao - set in motion, encourage) - biologically active substances that are produced by the endocrine glands and are released directly into the blood, lymph or cerebrospinal fluid.

(Kononsky). They have a strictly specific and selective effect, capable of raising or lowering the level of vital activity of the body.

The secreted hormones from the endocrine glands differ from other biologically active substances in a number of properties:

1. The action of hormones is distant, in other words, the organs on which hormones act are located far from the gland.

The action of hormones is strictly specific. Some hormones act only on certain target cells, while others act on many different cells.

3. Hormones have high biological activity.

4. Hormones act only on living cells.

Basically, the role of hormones comes down to fine-tuning the body for proper functioning. As an example, let's take the antidiuretic (i.e., anti-diuretic) hormone, which is responsible for regulating the excretion of water from the kidneys.

First of all, this hormone removes from the blood, along with other waste products, large amounts of water that the body no longer needs. However, if everything left the body with urine, the body would lose too much water, and to prevent this from happening, another part of the kidney again absorbs as much moisture as in this moment your body needs.

The regulation of the human hormonal system is a very delicate process.

The hormone-producing glands closely interact with each other, as well as with the nervous system of the body. Both the hormonal and the nervous systems send their "messengers" through the body; Let us immediately note that each of these chemical carriers of information, or, as biologists say, messengers, has its own speed and its own mode of action. Imagine the human nervous system as a telephone connection: information signals are carried by electrical impulses through a special network of nerve cells (neurons) until they reach the receptor in your brain, which receives the signal, reacting almost immediately to it.

The action of hormones

To achieve a noticeable effect, the smallest amounts of hormones are enough.

AT individual cases the body needs a millionth of a gram of a hormonal substance. The so-called general hormones produce a variety of effects.

Other hormones, known as locally acting hormones or "transporters", act much closer to the site where they originate. The first group includes insulin and sex hormones. Local hormones include secretin, a hormone produced in the duodenum in response to the presence of food.

Secretin, breaking through circulatory system a very short distance, enters the nearby pancreas and causes it to produce a watery juice containing enzymes, or enzymes - they are necessary for the body to digest food. Another locally acting hormone, acetylcholine, is produced when a nerve sends muscle cells compression signal. Getting into the organ intended for this, the hormone can start working only if it appears on the correct section of the cell membrane.

Then, by attaching to this section of the membrane, the hormone stimulates the formation of a substance called cyclic adenosine monophosphate. Scientists believe that in the cell this substance activates a group of enzyme systems that cause the cell to respond to what is happening or to produce a substance that the body needs at the moment.
The response of each cell depends on chemical processes inside her. If cyclic adenosine monophosphate appears due to the presence of the hormone insulin, your cells begin to take in and consume glucose.

If, on the contrary, the process is initiated by the presence of glycogen (also produced in the pancreas), your cells will begin to release glucose. This glucose accumulates in the blood and serves as fuel for the physical activity of the body.

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Home >> Endocrinology

Human hormones - biological functions of the main hormones

Hormones- biologically active substances secreted by endocrine glands and ad hoc groups cells in various tissues directly into the blood.

These substances play a very important role in the humoral regulation of various body functions; in addition, some hormones are neuromodulators.

To date, there is no single classification of hormones. By chemical structure they can be divided into three groups:

1. proteins and peptides - hormones of the pituitary and hypothalamus, pancreas, parathyroid glands, calcitonin;
2. amino acid derivatives - thyroid hormones, adrenal medulla;
3. steroid structure - hormones of the adrenal cortex and gonads.

The anatomical classification of hormones (according to organ origin) turned out to be imperfect, since some hormones are synthesized in several organs at once.

For example, sex hormones are produced not only in the sex glands, but also in the adrenal cortex.

Attempts to classify hormones according to their metabolic effects also encountered some difficulties. For example, cortisol at physiological concentrations may have the same effect on salt metabolism as aldosterone, etc.

In pharmacological practice, a mixed classification is adopted, which takes into account the natural origin of hormones (hormones of the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, etc.) and their physiological action (androgens, estrogens, etc.).

Thus, according to the place of synthesis and biological activity, the following are distinguished:

Pituitary hormones Hormones of the anterior pituitary gland (adenohypophysis):
- adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH, corticotropin) / stimulates the synthesis of glucocorticoids and (to a lesser extent) mineralocorticoids, increases the secretion of insulin by the pancreas, enhances the synthesis of growth hormone, stimulates lipolysis;
- gonadotropins: luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones / regulate the development and function of the sex glands, the secretion of sex hormones;
- lactotropic hormone (LH, proactin) / enhances the hormonal function of the corpus luteum and progesterone activity, regulates the growth and development of the mammary glands, stimulates the formation of milk in postpartum period, participates in the regulation of water-salt metabolism;
- somatotropic hormone (somatotropin, growth hormone) / stimulates the growth of skeletal bones, has anabolic (increases protein biosynthesis) and hyperglycemic (suppresses insulin release) action;
- thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH, thyrotropin) / regulates thyroid function, enhances iodine uptake and synthesis of thyroid hormones. Hormones of the posterior pituitary gland (neurohypophysis):
- antidiuretic hormone (ADH, vasopressin) / enhances water reabsorption in the renal tubules, reducing urination and increasing the osmotic concentration of urine, participates in the formation of a feeling of thirst, regulation of blood pressure;
- oxytocin / stimulates contraction of the uterine muscles during childbirth, causes contraction of myoepithelial cells adjacent to the alveoli of the mammary gland, improving excretion breast milk.Hormones of the intermediate lobe of the pituitary gland:
- milanocyte-stimulating hormone (melanotropin, intermedin) / stimulates the synthesis of melanins and thereby determines pigmentation. Adrenal hormones Hormones of the adrenal cortex (corticosteroids):
- glucocorticoids (glucocorticosteroids): cortisol, cortisone, etc.

/ regulate the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats (increase gluconeogenesis, lipolysis, protein breakdown), provide the body's response to stress factors, have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects;
- mineralocorticoids: aldosterone, deoxycorticosterone / regulate water-salt metabolism by enhancing sodium reabsorption from primary urine and reducing potassium reabsorption;
- sex hormones: dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, androstenedione / are involved in the development of the genital organs, have anabolic and hypocholesterolemic effects. Hormones of the adrenal medulla:
- adrenaline (epinephrine) / α,β-adrenergic agonist, has a pronounced cardiotonic, vasopressor and hyperglycemic effect: stimulates cardiac activity, causes vasoconstriction of the abdominal organs, skin and mucous membranes, increases blood pressure, relaxes the smooth muscles of the bronchi and gastrointestinal tract, increases the content of glucose in the blood;
- norepinephrine (norepinephrine) / has a direct stimulating effect on α- and β1-adrenergic receptors, has a strong vasoconstrictive effect, increases blood pressure, enhances coronary blood flow. Hormones of the parathyroid (parathyroid) glands - parathyroid hormone (parathyrin) / regulates mineral metabolism: increases calcium and reduces the content of phosphorus in the blood, has a vasoactive and cardiotropic effect; Pancreatic hormones - glucagon / is an insulin antagonist, activates glycogenolysis and increases the concentration of glucose in the blood;
- insulin / has a pronounced hypoglycemic effect, affects all types of metabolism: stimulates the transport of substances through cell membranes, enhances the synthesis of glycogen, fats and proteins, inhibits gluconeogenesis, inhibits lipolysis. Sex gland hormones are androgens: testosterone, androstenedione, etc.

/ regulate the development of male secondary sexual characteristics (type of hair growth, voice timbre, distribution of subcutaneous fat, etc.), have a strong anabolic and anti-catabolic effect, increase the utilization of glucose by cells, contribute to an increase muscle mass, regulate sexual desire;
- estrogens: estradiol, estriol, estrone / regulate the development of female genital organs, secondary sexual characteristics, mammary gland function, contribute to the emergence and maintenance of pregnancy;
- hormones of the corpus luteum (gestagens) / provide the possibility of the onset and maintenance of pregnancy: ensure the transition of the uterine mucosa from the phase of proliferation to the phase of secretion, providing conditions for the normal implantation of the egg, participate in the regulation of the female sexual cycle, increase the proliferation of the epithelium of the mammary passages, reduce excitability and contractility of the muscles of the uterus and fallopian tubes. Thyroid hormones - calcitonin (thyrocalcitonin) / has a hypocalcemic effect, inhibits the process of bone decalcification, calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, resulting in a decrease in the calcium content in the blood plasma;
- thyroid hormones: thyroxine and triiodothyronine / enhance oxygen uptake by cells and mitochondria, ensure normal processes of tissue growth and differentiation, increase myocardial contractility, increase CNS excitability and activate mental processes, promote hyperglycemia, have a lipolytic effect, etc.

Endocrinology. National leadership. Brief edition / ed. I. I. Dedova, G. A. Melnichenko. — M.: GEOTAR-Media, 2013.
2. Directory of a doctor and pharmacist / B.Ya. Syropyatov. - M .: LLC Publishing House Onyx: LLC Publishing House World and Education, 2005.
2. Medical and pharmaceutical commodity science / N.B. Dryomov. - Kursk: KSMU, 2005.
3. Medicines: properties, application, contraindications / Ed. M.A.

Klyuev. - M .: Russian book, 1993.

It includes organs that produce hormones that are necessary for the normal functioning of the body. Each type of hormone is responsible for a certain, and their insufficient or excessive production affects the performance of all organs and tissues. It is necessary to consider in detail what hormones are and why a person needs them.

Concept and classification

What is a hormone? The scientific definition of this concept is rather complicated, but if explained in a simple way, then these are active substances that are synthesized in the body, necessary for the performance of all organs and systems. When the level of these substances in the body is disturbed, a hormonal failure occurs, which, first of all, affects the nervous system and the psychological state of a person, and only then dysfunctions of other systems begin to occur.

What hormones are can be understood by finding out their functions and significance in the human body. They are classified according to the place of formation, chemical structure and purpose.

According to chemical characteristics, the following groups are distinguished:

• protein-peptide (insulin, glucagon, somatropin, prolactin, calcitonin);
• steroids (cortisol, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, estradiol);
• amino acid derivatives (serotonin, aldosterone, angiothesin, erythropoietin).

A fourth group can be distinguished - eicosanoids. These substances are produced in non-endocrine organs and act locally. Therefore, they are called "hormone-like" substances.

• thyroid;
• parathyroid gland;
• pituitary;
• hypothalamus;
• adrenal glands;
• ovaries;
• testicles.

Each hormone in the human body has its own purpose. Them biological functions shows the following table:

This table only shows the main purposes of several hormones. But each of them can stimulate and be responsible for several functions at once. Here are a few examples: Adrenaline is not only responsible for muscle contraction, but also regulates pressure and in some way participates in carbohydrate metabolism. Estrogen, which stimulates reproductive function, affects blood clotting and lipid metabolism.

The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck and has a very small weight - about 20 grams. But this small organ plays an important role in the body - it is in it that hormones are produced that stimulate the work of all organs and tissues.

And - the main hormones of this gland. For their formation, iodine is needed, which is why they are called iodine-containing. T3 - contains three iodine molecules. It is produced in small amounts and has the ability to quickly break down, getting into the blood. T4 - consists of four molecules, has a longer pot life and is therefore considered more important. Its content in the body is 90% of all human hormones.

Their functions:

• contribute to the development of proteins;
• stimulate energy metabolism;
• increase blood pressure;
• affect the work of the central nervous system;
• control cardiac performance.

If there is a lack of T3 and T4, then the performance of all body systems is disrupted:

• decreased intelligence;
• metabolism is disturbed;
• decreased production of sex hormones;
• dulled heart sounds.

May be observed serious violations in the psyche and nervous system. Enhanced level causes irritability, sudden weight gain or loss, tachycardia, hyperhidrosis.

The two states in which these substances exist are:

• Associated - do not affect the body as long as they are delivered by albumin protein to organs.
• Free - have a biologically active effect on the body.

Since everything is interconnected in the body, these types of hormones are reproduced under the influence of TSH produced in. That is why information is important for diagnosis not only about thyroid hormones, but also about the TSH hormone.

Parathyroid hormones

Behind the thyroid gland is the parathyroid gland, which is responsible for the concentration of calcium in the blood. This is due to - PTH (parathyrin or parathyroid hormone), which stimulates metabolic processes in the body.

Functions of PTH:

• reduces the level of calcium excreted by the kidneys;
• stimulates the absorption of calcium into the blood;
• increases the level of vitamin D3 in the body;
• with a deficiency of calcium and phosphorus in the blood, removes them from bone tissue;
• with an excess of phosphorus and calcium in the blood, deposits them in the bones.

A low concentration of parathyroid hormone leads to muscle weakness, problems with intestinal motility, impaired heart performance and changes mental condition person.

Symptoms of a decrease in parathyroid hormone:

• tachycardia;
• convulsions;
• insomnia;
• occasional chills or feeling hot;
• heartache.

A high level of PTH has Negative influence on the formation of bone tissue, the bones become more brittle.

Symptoms of elevated PTH:

• growth retardation in children;
• muscle pain;
• frequent urination;
• skeletal deformity;
• loss of healthy teeth;
• constant thirst.

The resulting calcification disrupts blood circulation, provokes the formation of stomach ulcers and duodenum, deposition of phosphate stones in the kidneys.

The pituitary gland is a brain process that produces a large number of active substances. They are formed in the anterior and posterior part of the pituitary gland and have their own special functions. It also produces several types of hormones.

Formed in the anterior lobe:

• Luteinizing and follicle-stimulating - are responsible for the reproductive system, the maturation of follicles in women and spermatozoa and men.
• Thyrotropic - controls the formation and release of the hormones T3 and T4, as well as phospholipids and nucleotides.
• Somatropin - controls the growth of a person and his physical development.
• Prolactin is the main function: the production of breast milk. Also takes part in the formation of secondary female signs and plays a minor role in material exchange.

Synthesized in the posterior lobe:

• - affects the contraction of the uterus and, to a lesser extent, other muscles of the body.
• Vasopressin - activates the work of the kidneys, removes excess sodium from the body, participates in water-salt metabolism.

In the middle lobe - melanotropin, responsible for pigmentation skin. According to recent data, melanotropin may have an effect on memory.

The hormones produced in the pituitary gland are under the influence of the hypothalamus, which plays the role of a regulator of the secretion of active substances in the organs. is a link connecting the nervous and endocrine systems. The hormones of the hypothalamus - melanostatin, prolactostatin, inhibit the secretion of the pituitary gland. All the rest, for example, luliberin, folliberin, are aimed at stimulating the secretion of the pituitary gland.

The active substances that are formed in the pancreas make up only 1–2% of total number. But, despite the small amount, they play a significant role in digestion and other body processes.

What hormones are produced in the pancreas:

• Glucagon - increases the level of glucose in the blood, is involved in energy metabolism.
• Insulin - reduces the level of glucose, inhibits its synthesis, is a conductor of amino acids and minerals to the cells of the body, prevents protein deficiency.
• Somatostatin - reduces the level of glucagon, slows down blood circulation in the abdominal cavity, prevents the absorption of carbohydrates.
• Pancreatic polypeptide - regulates contractions of the muscles of the gallbladder, controls secreted enzymes and bile.
• Gastrin - creates the necessary level of acidity for the digestion of food.

Violation of the production of hormones by the pancreas, in the first place, leads to diabetes. An abnormal amount of glucagon provokes pancreatic tumors of a malignant nature. With failures in the production of somatostatin and leads to various diseases gastrointestinal tract.

Hormones of the adrenal cortex and gonads

The adrenal medulla produces very important hormones- epinephrine and noradrenaline. Adrenaline is formed when stressful situations occur, for example, in shock situations, with fear, severe pain. Why is it needed? When there is resistance to negative factors, that is, it has a protective function.

Also, people notice that when they receive good news, there is a feeling of inspiration - the excitatory function of norepinephrine is activated. This hormone gives a feeling of confidence, stimulates the nervous system, and regulates blood pressure.

Corticosteroid substances are also produced in the adrenal glands:

• Aldosterone regulates hemodynamics and water-salt balance in the body, is responsible for the amount of sodium and calcium ions in the blood.
• Corticosterone - participates only in water-salt metabolism.
• Deoxycorticosterone - increases the stamina of the body.
• - Designed to stimulate carbohydrate metabolism.

The reticular zone of the adrenal glands secretes sex hormones - that affect the development of secondary sexual characteristics. Women's include - androstenedione and responsible for hair growth, work sebaceous glands and the formation of libido. Estrogens (estriol, estradiol, estrone) are produced in the ovaries, the reproductive function of the female body is completely envy from them.

In men, they practically do not play a role, since their main hormone is testosterone (formed from DEA) and is produced in the testicles. Second in importance male hormone- dehydrotestosterone - is responsible for the potency, development of the genital organs and libido. In some cases, in men, it can turn into estrogen, which leads to impaired sexual function. Human sex hormones, wherever they are formed, depend on each other and simultaneously affect the body of men and women.

Hormones- these are compounds of an organic composition that are produced by certain glands and are designed to control, regulate and coordinate certain functions of the human body, and in particular those that affect his behavior, character traits.

These substances are produced in specialized ones.

How do hormones affect our behavior? We do not even notice how many of our actions, movements, reactions are a reflection of the hormonal changes in our body.

Significance of hormones

Thyroid produces the hormones triiodothyronine and tetraiodothyronine or takes part in the coordination and regulation of the work of all organs, is responsible for metabolic processes in the body.

• with a lack or excess of thyroid hormones, a person feels unwell (weakness, fatigue, fatigue), metabolic processes, the menstrual cycle in women are disturbed, memory and thinking deteriorate, the reaction rate decreases.
  

  In children, hypofunction of this gland leads to mental retardation- cretinism.

• with hyperfunction of this gland (Basedow's disease), the character of a person becomes quick-tempered and irritable, reacts sharply to the simplest situations. (There are also external manifestations- enlarged "goiter" and "bulging eyes")

AT adrenal cortex three groups of hormones are synthesized - norepinephrine and sex hormones.

Adrenalin called stress hormone.

When a person is under stress, the brain sends a signal to the adrenal glands. The production of the hormone adrenaline begins, while all reactions are accelerated, an instant analysis of the situation (stimulus) and the choice of reaction, the most applicable method of action and ensuring survival in this case.

There is also a negative effect - adrenaline in large quantities inhibits work and (vasoconstriction occurs) and thus ensures rapid deterioration of the body.

Sex hormones: female and male.

Some scientists believe that a person is unable to control his own behavior, that his relationship with the opposite sex is determined by the hormonal background of the body. How so?

Female hubbub estrogen - the most important in the body of a woman, and it is reproduced in the ovaries.

• estrogen is responsible for the growing up of the girl, for her, he prepares her for sexual life helps to become a mother;
• it is from its quantity, scientists read, that the strength of the maternal instinct, the desire of a woman to preserve and protect her offspring, depends;
• estrogen maintains the youth and beauty of a woman, if there are violations in the production of this hormone, then a woman may look older, worse, and therefore more likely to experience negative attitude to life. Agree, the influence of estrogen on the behavior and character of women is huge!
• the amount of estrogen in a woman’s body also determines her fullness, so thinness is not always an indicator of health.

Prolactin is being developed.

This hormone ensures the growth and development of the mammary glands during puberty,

and is also responsible for the production of milk during lactation.

In many ways, the size of the female bust depends on this, and hence the self-esteem of a woman, her attitude towards herself and the world. However, for every beauty there is a connoisseur.

• Prolactin is also called a stress hormone, as its production increases with physical exertion, psychological trauma, etc.

Progesterone is responsible for the onset and course of pregnancy, and this hormone is reproduced corpus luteum, adrenal glands and placenta.

The work of this hormone is so simple, it is on its production that the maternal instinct depends, as many scientists believe: it is not without reason that soft toys, “cute” kittens and, of course, cute, curly and not so, babies so often cause delight and aching feelings in women. This is instinct.

During pregnancy a "hormonal boom" occurs in a woman's body.

The complexity of this period is that the mother's body, in addition to her hormones, is also influenced by the hormones of the fetus. All the functioning of the woman's body is subject to the proper development of the baby. Given that the whole body of a woman is undergoing changes, a change in her hormonal levels, frequent and sometimes unpredictable, is inevitable. And here it is important to monitor the hormonal background. expectant mother not only because the functioning of the endocrine glands undergoes some changes during this period, but also because good health and the mental state of a woman is the key to a calm pregnancy and easy childbirth.

Testosterone is a male hormone.

Another name for this hormone is aggression hormone. Well, how else, if it is a male hormone, because it is he who causes in a man the desire to get food, feed and protect his home, his offspring.

• reproduced by the adrenal glands and. As the level of the hormone in the boy's body grows, the boy turns into a man ready for fertilization.
• testosterone affects the ability of a man to orient himself in space (which is why “topographic cretinism” is less common in men), is responsible for hair growth and a deep voice. By the way, some scientists believe that the lower the voice of a man, the higher the content of progesterone in his body and the higher his sexuality, brutality and attractiveness to the opposite sex. This is of course a controversial point of view, but still. It is as controversial as the point of view that fair-haired women are more attractive to men, due to the fact that their body has more female hormone (which determines in part their blondeness). And biologically fertile women are more attractive to men for the purpose of reproducing offspring. We note by the way (in order to fight for a healthy lifestyle) that if a man smokes and drinks, then the level of testosterone in the blood decreases, which means that his attractiveness to a woman as the father of offspring also falls down. A decrease in testosterone levels occurs at the age of 60-80, it is then that a man becomes a wonderful grandfather who loves to mess with his grandchildren.

Androgens(general hormones), including testosterone, are also produced in the female body. At hormonal disruptions, the level of this hormone in a woman's body can increase, which causes increased body hair growth, lowering the timbre of the voice. A woman's well-being worsens, and her self-esteem often decreases.

During menopause in women, estrogen levels decrease and testosterone levels increase. A woman during menopause can become more aggressive, which already contributes to an increase in predisposition to stress.

Hormones of happiness in science it is called endorphins.

• they have an analgesic effect;
• produced during sex, here, of course, scientists came to the conclusion that having sex has a positive effect on the entire body. There is a good mood here, and a wonderful state of health. When having sex, adrenaline and cortisone are produced, which stimulate the brain, creative thinking, increase attention and memory of a person. Moreover, regular sex increases life expectancy. But it should be understood that we are talking about permanent partners - husband or wife, and the key to good sex is the love of both partners.
• it is believed that the production of the hormone of happiness contributes to - chocolate, sweet at its best. Chocolate is useful in itself, as a source of energy for the body and brain, as a guarantee Have a good mood. Other than that, chocolate is just delicious.

Note that family relationships are also partly regulated by our hormonal levels. Here is important proportion of male and female hormones by husband and wife: one or another degree of testosterone content in the human body ensures its conflict, aggressiveness, the ability to make concessions, assertiveness, i.e. responsible for the flexibility of the human psyche.

In this article, we tried to consider as many hormones in our body as possible.

The influence of hormones on the character and behavior of a person is great and varied: work mental processes(memory, attention, thinking, speech, etc.), our feelings and states, mood and reactions to the outside world - everything is more or less influenced by the hormonal background of the human body.

Features of hormones are that a person needs a small amount of each substance, but at the same time they are all of great importance for the body.

The main functions of hormones: regulation metabolic processes, cell growth, organ development. Produced by the endocrine system, which includes:

• pituitary;
• hypothalamus;
• thyroid and pancreas;
• adrenals.

In the event of failures in hormonal system, a person begins to suffer from manifestations of various diseases.

General characteristics

How many types of hormones does the human body produce? Doctors have about 100 varieties of the main hormones and more than a dozen activator hormones. After being produced, they are released into the bloodstream and directed towards the required organ or tissue, where they act on each cell. Protein components are able to function on the surface of cell membranes, while fatty components penetrate inside and act on organelles.

By their own chemical properties divided into several substances:

• proteins;
• derivatives of amino acids;
• peptides;
• fats;
• steroids.

In their totality, they contribute to the physical, mental and puberty of a person. And also thanks to these substances, the body easily adapts to the changing external world and maintains the constancy of its internal environment. Each hormone has its own chemical structure and physical properties.

All hormones produced by the body can be divided into 5 groups:

• growth and regulatory (hypophysis);
• sex (ovaries and testicles):
• stress (medulla of the adrenal glands);
• corticosteroids (cortical part of the adrenal glands);
• metabolic (pancreas and thyroid glands).

Hormones-activators are not included in any of the above groups. They do not have a direct effect on the human body. Such substances stimulate the synthesis of the main hormones. Synthesized by the hypothalamus and anterior lobes.

Growth and regulatory

The concentration of sex hormones in the female body is not constant. Jumps occur under the influence of phases menstrual cycle. The biggest changes in hormonal background occur during pregnancy.

stressful

These hormones are produced in the body by the adrenal glands. They influence metabolic processes and human adaptation to changing environmental conditions. Thanks to them, we can deal with stress and accept important decisions in extreme conditions.

Dopamine

Or, in other words, the "hormone of joy." It is he who helps a person experience a feeling of pleasure and euphoria. The development process is activated in specific situations: when a person likes certain kind activities. At the same time, the brain tries to remember these sensations and makes a person return to it again and again. The amount of the hormone may increase in stressful situations, and even when state of shock(including pain).

Deficiency symptoms:

• lack of emotions;
• indifference to everything that happens;
• fast fatiguability;
• strong desire to cry.

Overload symptoms:

• rapid breathing and heartbeat;
• great burst of energy;
• increased activity.

Lowering leads to depression, which in turn can cause obesity, chronic fatigue and other ailments.

Adrenalin

It's a stress hormone. It helps to "gather up your courage" in a stressful situation. It is able to dull the pain of injuries, block fear and increase stamina.

In the process of how adrenaline is released into the bloodstream, there is an increase in heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, which helps to saturate the muscles with oxygen and use them to their full potential. And also this substance increases the period of wakefulness and accelerates the reaction. How long does the action of adrenaline last? Scientists have calculated that about 5 minutes.

Hormonal failure can lead to mental disorders, hypertension, exhaustion, kidney disease.

Cortisol

This substance regulates carbohydrate metabolism. Its maximum amount is produced in the morning hours. The minimum amount falls on the evening.

And also the release of cortisol into the blood occurs in stressful situations. It helps the human body to mobilize by reducing calcium absorption and altering metabolism, thereby making glucose more available. With a shortage in the blood, a person begins to feel irritability, he is tormented by headaches and dizziness, his appetite disappears, and the work of the gastrointestinal tract is disturbed.

Excess hormone causes:

• obesity;
• insomnia;
• decline defensive forces immunity;
• decrease in testosterone levels in the body.

All this can lead to the appearance of many diseases: diabetes, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

Corticosteroids

Maintain mineral balance in the body. Hormones of this group are produced in the adrenal cortex. Their functionality is not limited to one specific body or cloth.

They regulate all metabolic processes of the body, maintain a constant mineral composition blood, promote the excretion of excess substances. They are also used for medical purposes:

• for the treatment of viral hepatitis;
• arthritis prevention;
• treatment of arthrosis;
• prevention of bronchial asthma.

Exchange

This group includes different types hormones, but they are all combined common function- regulation of the body's metabolic processes. They are synthesized by the pancreas, thyroid, parathyroid glands, - regulates the process of urination.

The balance of hormones in the human body is a guarantee of its full development.

These substances are very important in children and adolescence, as they give impetus to the growth and formation of the body. Hormonal disorders in a child's body is very difficult to compensate and they can lead to irreversible consequences. The state of hormones in the body affects the state of all organs.

Thyroid hormones deserve close attention.

With their deficiency, the physical and mental development. In addition, thyroid hormones interact closely with other hormones. A striking example of this process is the connection with somatotropin, which is responsible for the growth of the body. This hormone in the body of a teenager is irreplaceable.

Symptoms of thyroid disorders:

• weight problems - being overweight or overweight;
• growth retardation;
• tearfulness and irritability;
• swollen neck and enlarged eyeballs;
• pale skin;
• increased fatigue;
• decreased mental activity.

When these signs appear, you should be tested for thyroid hormones. In the absence of secondary sexual characteristics in a teenager aged 12-14 years, it is necessary to check. And also in childhood, you can take a blood sugar test and diagnose the presence of diabetes.